Urethra

Definition

The urethra is a tubular structure that connects the urinary bladder to the exterior of the body, allowing for the excretion of urine. In males, it also serves as a passageway for semen during ejaculation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The female urethra is significantly shorter than the male urethra, making women more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
2. Normal microbiota in the urethra can include species like Lactobacillus and Staphylococcus epidermidis.
3. Urethritis is an inflammation of the urethra often caused by bacterial or viral infections.
4. In males, the urethra passes through the prostate gland and can be affected by conditions such as prostatitis.
5. Diagnostic techniques like urine culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are used to identify pathogens causing infections in the urethra.

Review Questions

• What are two primary functions of the urethra in males?
• Which anatomical difference makes females more prone to UTIs compared to males?
• Name two types of microorganisms commonly found in the normal microbiota of the urethra.

Related terms

Urinary Bladder: A hollow organ that stores urine produced by the kidneys before it's excreted.

Prostatitis:

Inflammation of the prostate gland, which can affect male urination due to its proximity to the urethra.

Urethritis:

Inflammation of the urethra usually caused by infection, leading to symptoms like pain during urination.