Dorsal nerve of penis or clitoris

Last revised by Arlene Campos on 28 Feb 2024

Dorsal nerve of penis or clitoris is one of the two terminal branches of the pudendal nerve that arises from nerve whilst in the pudendal canal. The other terminal branch is the perineal nerve

Gross anatomy

Course

Entering the urogenital triangle of the perineum, the dorsal nerve of penis or clitoris runs anteriorly, medial to the ischiopubic ramus and then either deep to perineal membrane or in the anterior recess of the ischioanal fossa 1.

In males, the dorsal nerve runs between fibers of the suspensory ligament of penis to terminate at the glans penis 2. Supplying the penile skin, it also gives a branch to the corpus cavernosum 3.

In females, the nerve terminates in the clitoris.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.