Urethra

The urethra, also known as the urethra, is the tube through which urine exits the bladder. The urethra is part of the genitourinary system and there are some differences in its structure and functions between men and women.

In men, the urethra begins inside the bladder and passes through the prostate, the front of the bladder neck and the penis, where its opening is at the tip. In women, the urethra is shorter and begins in the bladder, runs down the front wall of the vagina and opens inside the vulva.

The function of the urethra is to remove waste from the body's genitourinary system. When urine fills the bladder, the muscles in the bladder walls begin to contract and squeeze the urine into the urethra. The urethral sphincter muscles then relax, allowing urine to pass out of the body through the opening of the urethra.

Other functions of the urethra include participation in the process of fertilization in men and participation in sexual arousal in women. In men, the urethra is also the passageway for sperm to pass through during ejaculation.

Despite the fact that the urethra is an important part of the genitourinary system, it can also become the site of various diseases. Some may be associated with genitourinary tract infections such as urethritis or cystitis, while others may be associated with dysfunction of the urethral sphincter muscles, such as urethral incontinence or obstruction.

Overall, the urethra is an important part of the genitourinary system, allowing waste to be removed from the body and performing other important functions. However, if there are any changes in its functioning, you should contact a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.