pelvic

Pelvic is an anatomical term relating to the pelvis, the basin-shaped region at the lower trunk. In humans, the pelvis comprises the bony pelvis or pelvic girdle, formed by the two hip bones (ilium, ischium, pubis), plus the sacrum and coccyx. The hip bones connect anteriorly at the pubic symphysis and posteriorly with the sacrum.

The bony pelvis is divided into the greater (false) pelvis and the lesser (true) pelvis by the pelvic brim, a boundary of the pelvic inlet. The pelvis supports the trunk, transfers weight to the legs, and, in females, provides a passage for birth. Generally, male and female pelves differ in size and shape.

The pelvic cavity contains reproductive, urinary, and lower intestinal organs: in females, uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes; in males, seminal vesicles and parts of the vas deferens; the bladder, ureters, rectum, and portions of the intestine also reside within or below the pelvic brim. The peritoneum covers portions of these organs.

The pelvic floor consists of muscles and connective tissue that form a sling across the bottom of the cavity, with the levator ani group and coccygeus as principal components. The pelvic floor supports pelvic organs and maintains continence, playing a role in childbirth and core stability.

Neurovascular supply includes branches of the internal iliac artery and vein; autonomic nerves run through the pelvic splanchnic nerves and the inferior hypogastric plexus. Lymph drainage accompanies major vessels.

Clinical relevance includes pelvic fractures, pelvic inflammatory disease, gynecologic and urologic surgery, pelvic organ prolapse, and chronic pelvic pain. Understanding pelvic anatomy is essential in medicine, obstetrics, and physical therapy.