The term "bulb of the urethra" refers to a structure located at the base of the penis in males and the anterior wall of the vagina in females. The correct spelling of this word is /bʌlb əv ði jʊˈriθrə/, which is broken down into its individual phonemes. The initial sound is represented by the symbol /b/, and the second sound by /ʌ/. The long 'e' sound is represented by the symbol /i/, and the 'th' sound by /ð/. Finally, the word ends with the symbol /rə/. Understanding the IPA phonetic transcription can help in accurately pronouncing and spelling medical terms.
The bulb of the urethra, also referred to as the bulbous urethra or corpus spongiosum, is an anatomical structure found in the male reproductive system. It forms a part of the urethra, which is the tube responsible for carrying urine and semen out of the body.
The bulb of the urethra is located at the base of the penis, just below the prostate gland and above the external urethral sphincter. It is a cylindrical mass made up of spongy erectile tissue known as corpus spongiosum. This tissue contains numerous blood vessels and spaces that can fill with blood during sexual arousal, contributing to the erection of the penis.
The main function of the bulb of the urethra is to assist in the process of ejaculation. During sexual stimulation, the muscles surrounding the bulb contract, forcing the semen from the prostate gland into the urethra for expulsion. The spongy tissue of the bulb also helps to provide structural support to the urethra and facilitate the passage of urine and semen.
In summary, the bulb of the urethra is a specialized section of the male reproductive system located at the base of the penis. It consists of spongy erectile tissue and plays a crucial role in ejaculation and the passage of urine and semen.
Bulbus urethrae.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.