The ischiocavernosus muscle (erectores penis ''or'' erector clitoridis in older texts) is a muscle just below the surface of the perineum, present in both men and women.

Structure

It arises by tendinous and fleshy fibers from the inner surface of the tuberosity of the ischium, behind the crus penis; and from the inferior pubic rami and ischium on either side of the crus. From these points fleshy fibers succeed, and end in an aponeurosis which is inserted into the sides and under surface of the crus penis.

Function

In females, the ischiocavernosus muscle assists with clitoral erection. In males, it helps to stabilize the erect penis by compressing the crus penis and retarding the return of blood through the veins.

Additional images

File:Gray236.png, Right hip bone. Internal surface. File:Gray407.png, Coronal section of anterior part of pelvis, through the pubic arch. Seen from in front. File:Gray542.png, The superficial branches of the internal pudendal artery.

References

External links

* - "The Female Perineum: Muscles of the Superficial Perineal Pouch" * - "Muscles of the female superficial perineal pouch." * - "Muscles of the male superficial perineal pouch. " {{Authority control Muscles of the torso Perineum