Frenulum of labia minora

Frenulum of Labia Minora

File:Frenulum of labia minora.jpg

Frenulum of labia minora

The Frenulum of Labia Minora is an anatomical structure in the female reproductive system. It is a fold of skin at the posterior end of the vulva, where the labia minora meet. This article provides a detailed overview of the frenulum of labia minora, its anatomy, function, and clinical significance.

Anatomy

The frenulum of labia minora is a small fold of tissue where the labia minora, the inner lips of the vulva, meet posteriorly. It is located near the fourchette, the point where the labia minora and the labia majora meet at the back of the vulva. The frenulum is part of the clitoral hood, which is the fold of skin that surrounds and protects the clitoris.

Function

The primary function of the frenulum of labia minora is to maintain the position of the labia minora and to limit their movement. It also plays a role in sexual arousal, as it is an area that is rich in nerve endings and can be sensitive to touch.

Clinical Significance

The frenulum of labia minora can be involved in various medical conditions. For instance, it can be affected by lichen sclerosus, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause white patches and skin thinning. It can also be involved in vulvodynia, a chronic pain condition of the vulva. In some cases, the frenulum may be surgically altered or removed, such as in a labiaplasty or during the treatment of certain medical conditions.

See Also

• Vulva
• Labia minora
• Labia majora
• Clitoral hood