Corpus cavernosum penis

Corpus Cavernosum Penis

The Corpus Cavernosum Penis is one of the integral parts of the male reproductive system. It is a pair of sponge-like regions of erectile tissue, which contain most of the blood in the penis during an erection.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Corpus Cavernosum Penis" is derived from Latin, where "corpus" means body, "cavernosum" means cavernous or full of cavities, and "penis" refers to the male genital organ.

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The Corpus Cavernosum Penis is located along the penis, with two parts lying side by side and extending from the pelvic bone to the head of the penis. These parts are surrounded by a membrane called the tunica albuginea. The corpus cavernosum also contains the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body.

Physiology[edit | edit source]

During sexual arousal, the brain releases a hormone that causes the corpus cavernosum to fill with blood, leading to an erection. The blood fills the corpus cavernosum and expands it, causing the penis to become rigid. After ejaculation or when the sexual arousal subsides, the blood drains out of the corpus cavernosum, and the penis returns to its flaccid state.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

Erection: The state of the penis when it is filled with blood and is rigid.
Erectile Dysfunction: A condition where a man is unable to achieve or maintain an erection.
Priapism: A painful, prolonged erection that can cause damage to the penis.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Corpus Spongiosum: Another part of the penis that also fills with blood during an erection.
Penis: The male genital organ that contains the corpus cavernosum.

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