Female Urethra

Question 1

Size and shape

Answer 1

1. Short duct 4 cm long
2. Homologous with urethral prostatic part proximal to prostatic utricle and ejaculatory ducts orifices

Question 2

Course

Answer 2

1. Begins at internal urethral orifice
2. Runs downwards and forwards traversing deep perineal pouch and perineal membrane
3. Open in vestibule immediately in front of vaginal opening 1 inch behind clitoris
4. Partly embedded in anterior vaginal wall therefore liable to be injured during delivery of fetal head in difficult labour

Question 3

Content

Answer 3

1. Its upper part is surrounded by sphincter urethrae (voluntary external urethral sphincter)
2. Its lower end is associated with 2 small para-urethral mucous glands (Skene’s glands) whose ducts open onto lateral margins of external urethral orifice