The correct spelling of the term "pelvic cavity" is pronounced as /ˈpɛlvɪk ˈkævəti/. It refers to the space within the pelvis that contains the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, rectum, and reproductive organs. The word "pelvic" is derived from the Latin word "pelvis", meaning basin or bowl, and the suffix "-ic" indicates something being related to or resembling the pelvis. Meanwhile, "cavity" comes from the Latin word "cavus", meaning hollow, and the suffix "-ity" signifies the quality or state of being hollow.
The pelvic cavity, also known as the pelvic region or pelvic space, is a specialized anatomical compartment that can be found within the human body. It is situated within the lower part of the abdomen, between the abdominal cavity and the perineum. The boundaries of the pelvic cavity are defined by several structures, including the bony pelvis, pelvic floor muscles, and pelvic organs.
The bony pelvis, composed of multiple bones including the ilium, ischium, and pubis, forms the sturdy framework that encloses the pelvic cavity. The pelvic cavity contains numerous important organs, including the urinary bladder, uterus (in females), rectum, and various parts of the digestive and reproductive system.
This body region plays a pivotal role in supporting and protecting these vital organs, as well as facilitating their proper functioning. It is instrumental in several physiological processes, including urination, defecation, sexual reproduction, and childbirth.
The pelvic cavity is connected to other body systems through various openings, such as the urogenital hiatus and the inguinal canal, allowing for the passage of many vital structures and nerve fibers.
In summary, the pelvic cavity is a region situated between the abdomen and the perineum, enclosed by the bony pelvis and housing important organs of the digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. It serves crucial functions in supporting and protecting these organs, as well as facilitating various physiological processes necessary for overall health and well-being.
The space bounded by the bones of the pelvis; it contains the bladder and rectum and, in the female, the uterus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pelvic" comes from the Latin word "pelvis", which means basin or bowl. It is derived from the Indo-European root word "pel", which means to sway or rock. The term "cavity" comes from the Latin word "cavitas", meaning hollow. So, the etymology of the term "pelvic cavity" refers to the hollow basin or bowl-shaped space in the lower part of the trunk of the body, also known as the pelvis.