virtsankanavan

Virtsankanava, also known as the urethra, is a tube that connects the bladder to the outside of the body. It serves as the final passage for urine to exit the body during urination. In males, the urethra also plays a role in the reproductive system, serving as a passage for semen during ejaculation.

The length and structure of the urethra differ significantly between males and females. In females, the urethra is much shorter, approximately 1.5 to 2 inches long, and opens to the exterior just above the vaginal opening. In males, the urethra is considerably longer, about 7 to 8 inches, and passes through the prostate gland and the penis.

The lining of the urethra is composed of mucous membrane, which helps to protect it from infection. A sphincter muscle at the base of the bladder controls the flow of urine through the urethra. When the bladder fills, signals are sent to the brain, which then initiates the process of urination by relaxing the sphincter.

Disorders affecting the urethra include urethritis, which is inflammation of the urethra, often caused by infection. Urethral strictures, which are narrowings of the urethra, can impede urine flow and may require medical intervention. Kidney stones can also pass through the urethra, causing pain and obstruction.