Ischiocavernosus muscle

Ischiocavernosus muscle is a muscle in the human body that is part of the superficial perineal pouch. It helps in maintaining an erection by increasing the pressure in the deep dorsal vein of the penis by compressing the crus penis.

Etymology

The term "Ischiocavernosus" is derived from the Latin "ischium" meaning hip and "cavernosus" referring to the cavernous tissue of the penis.

Structure

The Ischiocavernosus muscle originates from the inner surface of the ischium and the ischial tuberosity. It inserts into the crus penis in males and the crus clitoris in females. It is innervated by the perineal branch of the pudendal nerve.

Function

The primary function of the Ischiocavernosus muscle is to aid in erection of the penis or clitoris. It does this by compressing the crus penis or crus clitoris, which restricts the outflow of blood and maintains the erection. It also assists in ejaculation in males by forcing the semen out of the urethra.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Ischiocavernosus muscle can result in sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. It can also cause pain in the perineal region.

Related terms

• Perineal muscle
• Bulbospongiosus muscle
• Superficial perineal pouch
• Erection
• Ejaculation

See also

• List of muscles of the human body

References

Ischiocavernosus muscle Resources
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