Penile frenulum

Penile Frenulum

The penile frenulum or frenulum of prepuce of penis is an elastic band of tissue under the glans penis that connects to the prepuce, or foreskin, and helps contract it over the glans. It is comparable to the frenulum found under the tongue.

Anatomy

The penile frenulum is located on the ventral side of the penis, beneath the glans. It is a thin, triangular, midline fold of skin that connects the underside of the glans penis to the foreskin. The frenulum is highly sensitive, containing a rich supply of sensitive nerve endings, which contribute to sexual pleasure.

Function

The primary function of the penile frenulum is to assist in the movement of the foreskin. During sexual arousal, the frenulum helps to retract the foreskin from the glans, exposing it to stimulation. It also aids in returning the foreskin to its original position covering the glans after sexual activity or urination.

Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can affect the penile frenulum. These include:

• Frenulum breve: This condition occurs when the frenulum is too short and restricts the movement of the foreskin. It can cause discomfort during sexual activity and may require treatment.
• Frenulum tear or rupture: This can occur due to vigorous sexual activity or trauma and may cause significant pain and bleeding.
• Frenulectomy and Frenuloplasty: These are surgical procedures performed to lengthen a short frenulum or to repair a torn frenulum.

See Also

• Foreskin
• Glans Penis
• Frenulum Breve
• Frenulectomy
• Frenuloplasty