In both men and women, the urology system is the part of the body that deals with urination.
The Kidneys
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The urology system starts with thekidneys.
In adults, each kidney is fist-sized and shaped like a bean.
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Via arteries and veins, the kidneys are connected to the body’s vascular (blood) system.
Whatever is not needed is filtered through and eliminated as urine.
The ureter exits into the bladder.
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It is in this ureter where kidney stones can get stuck.
During pregnancy, the fetus can obstruct the ureter since it is located close to the growing fetus.
The bladder’s main job is to hold urine.
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As it gets full, you begin to feel the need to urinate.
When you urinate, the smooth muscle of the bladder walls contract, releasing the urine.
In women, the bladder sits on top of the front wall of thevagina.
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Childbirth also loosens the vaginal wall.
As you urinate, the bladder contracts and empties urine into the urethra.
Then, the urethral sphincter muscle relaxes, and urination occurs.
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Female External Genitalia
It can be hard to spot the urethra.
Frequently Asked Questions
The urethra is a small hole between the clitoris and vagina.
It can be hard to see as it is commonly tucked away under the labial folds.
It triggers when the vaginal walls weaken and the bladder descends into the vagina.
A prolapsed bladder can cause incontinence (stress and urge), straining to void, and pelvic pain.
In some cases, a prolapsed bladder can cause tissue to extend out of the opening of the vagina.
Or it can be treated with surgical correction of the prolapse by a urologist or urogynecologist.
The kidneys filter the bloodstream and turn waste into urine.
American Urological Association.Recurrent uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women: AUA/CUA/SUFU guideline.
Kaufman DP.Physiology, Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR).StatPearls [Internet].
2016;27(9):1297-305. doi:10.1007/s00192-015-2832-4
