Root of penis

The root of the penis (or penile root) is the part of the penis that extends into the pelvis. It is one of the three parts of the penis, along with the body (or shaft) and the glans penis.

Cross-section of the penis showing the root, body, and glans.

Anatomy

The root of the penis is made up of three parts: the bulb of penis, the crus of penis, and the fundiform ligament.

Bulb of Penis

The bulb of penis is the expanded posterior part of the corpus spongiosum, one of the three cylinders of erectile tissue that make up the penis. It is located in the midline of the body, between the crura of penis, and is covered by the bulbospongiosus muscle.

The bulb of penis.

Crus of Penis

The crus of penis (plural: crura) are the two diverging parts of the corpus cavernosum, another of the cylinders of erectile tissue. They are located on either side of the bulb and are covered by the ischiocavernosus muscle.

The crus of penis.

Fundiform Ligament

The fundiform ligament is a fibrous band that encircles the penis and attaches it to the front of the pubic symphysis, a joint at the front of the pelvis.

The fundiform ligament.

Function

The root of the penis serves to anchor the penis to the pelvic structure, providing support during erection and sexual intercourse. The bulb and crura are erectile tissues and become engorged with blood during sexual arousal, contributing to the process of erection.

See Also

• Anatomy of the human penis
• Erection
• Sexual intercourse