Urethra

Definition

The urethra is a tubular structure that connects the urinary bladder to the external body, allowing for the excretion of urine. It plays a crucial role in the body's waste elimination and osmoregulation processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The urethra is shorter in females compared to males, which affects susceptibility to urinary tract infections.
2. It serves as a passageway for urine from the bladder to be expelled out of the body.
3. In males, the urethra also functions as a conduit for semen during ejaculation.
4. The internal and external urethral sphincters help control the release of urine from the bladder.
5. Its lining contains specialized cells that protect against pathogens and damage from urine acidity.

Review Questions

• What are the primary functions of the urethra in both males and females?
• How does the length of the urethra differ between males and females, and what implications does this have?
• What mechanisms are involved in controlling urination through the urethra?

Related terms

Urinary Bladder: A muscular sac that stores urine produced by the kidneys before it is excreted through the urethra.

Ureter: A tube that carries urine from each kidney to the urinary bladder.

Sphincters:

Muscular valves that control the flow of urine through and out of the body via contraction and relaxation.