Posterior labial arteries

Posterior Labial Arteries

The Posterior Labial Arteries are a pair of arteries in the female anatomy that supply blood to the labia majora and labia minora. They are branches of the internal pudendal artery, which is a part of the internal iliac artery system.

Anatomy

The posterior labial arteries originate from the internal pudendal artery, which is a branch of the internal iliac artery. They run along the perineum and divide into several smaller branches that supply the labia majora and labia minora.

Diagram of the arteries of the female pelvis, showing the posterior labial arteries (labelled as branches of the internal pudendal artery)

Function

The primary function of the posterior labial arteries is to supply blood to the labia majora and labia minora. They also provide blood supply to the perineum and the lower part of the vagina.

Clinical Significance

Knowledge of the posterior labial arteries is important in various surgical procedures involving the female genitalia, such as labiaplasty and vaginoplasty. Damage to these arteries during surgery can lead to complications such as bleeding, hematoma formation, and tissue necrosis.

See Also

• Internal pudendal artery
• Labia majora
• Labia minora