Gonadal vein

Gonadal vein

The gonadal veins.

The gonadal vein is a blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the gonad to the inferior vena cava in males and the renal vein in females. It is also known as the testicular vein in males and the ovarian vein in females.

Structure

The gonadal vein is a paired structure, with one vein present on each side of the body. The right gonadal vein drains directly into the inferior vena cava, while the left gonadal vein drains into the left renal vein. The veins are responsible for draining the blood from the gonads, the organs responsible for producing gametes.

Function

The primary function of the gonadal vein is to transport deoxygenated blood from the gonads back to the heart. This is an essential part of the body's circulatory system, as it ensures that the gonads receive a constant supply of fresh, oxygenated blood.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities of the gonadal vein can lead to conditions such as varicocele in males and pelvic congestion syndrome in females. These conditions can cause pain and fertility issues, and may require surgical intervention.

See also

• Gonad
• Inferior vena cava
• Renal vein
• Varicocele
• Pelvic congestion syndrome