'What’s in a Name …'

The two structures are directly adjacent without any intervening tissue.  Some researchers have referred to a unified structure - or others the “C.U.V.”  Magnetic resonance imaging reveals clearly the relationship between the three structures – the clitoris, urethra and vagina a triangular or pyramidal tissue complex.  The clitoris is highly vascular, erectile or spongy in nature.  The urethra and vagina are also highly vascular relative to surrounding tissues – muscle, fat and supporting structures. Lessons learned from male or penile anatomy may be usefully applied to facilitate communication about female anatomy.  The urethra passes through the distal urethra.  That part of the urethra is then referred to as the penile urethra.  The urethra as it traverses through the clitoris may be referred to as the clitoral urethra and that component of the vaginal wall adherent to the clitoris can be referred to as the clitoral vagina.  The clinical corollary of this simplification is to stop the unhelpful distinction between the focus for female genital reflex responses – orgasm in particular.  the “ensemble uretro-clitorido-vulvaire”. Unhelpful terminology also applies to the vulval surface anatomy and a simplification will be presented.  Implications of accurate but agreed upon anatomy are scientific, clinical, relationship, health and happiness oriented and forensic.