Bladder sphincter

Bladder Sphincter

The bladder sphincter is a group of muscles that control the release of urine from the urinary bladder. These muscles are essential for the proper functioning of the urinary system and play a crucial role in urinary continence.

Anatomy

The bladder sphincter is composed of two distinct muscles: the internal urethral sphincter and the external urethral sphincter. The internal sphincter is a smooth muscle that is involuntary, while the external sphincter is a skeletal muscle that can be voluntarily controlled.

Internal Urethral Sphincter

The internal urethral sphincter is located at the neck of the bladder and is responsible for maintaining urinary continence when the bladder is filled with urine. It is an involuntary muscle, meaning it is not under conscious control.

External Urethral Sphincter

The external urethral sphincter is located below the internal sphincter and can be voluntarily controlled. This muscle allows for the conscious decision to urinate.

Function

The primary function of the bladder sphincter is to control the release of urine from the bladder. When the bladder is filled with urine, the internal sphincter is contracted to prevent leakage. During urination, the external sphincter is relaxed to allow the passage of urine.

Disorders

Disorders of the bladder sphincter can lead to a variety of conditions, including urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, and urinary retention. Treatment for these conditions may involve medication, surgery, or other therapies.

See Also

• Urinary system
• Urinary incontinence
• Overactive bladder
• Urinary retention

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