The Female Urethra

The female urethra (Urethra feminina) represents only that part of the canal of the male which lies between the internal urethral orifice and the openings of the ejaculatory ducts. Its length is about two inches (5 cm.), and its lumen is sufficient to admit of the introduction of the finger; it is, however, capable of remarkable dilatation if sufficient care and patience are exercised in the process. It lies centrally on the pelvic floor, and is related and attached dorsally to the vagina.

Structure.—The intrinsic muscular coat consists of longitudinal and circular layers of unstriped fibers. Between these is a layer of areolar tissue which contains a rich venous plexus. The mucous membrane is thrown into longitudinal folds when the canal is closed; it is highly elastic, and is covered with stratified epithelium.

The urethral muscle (M. compressor urethræ) embraces the urethra and is continued backward for some distance under the constrictor vestibuli. It is covered by a fibro-elastic membrane.