Clitoris Anatomy

The external glans

The clitoral glans is the visible external end. It usually sits near the top of the vulva where the inner labia meet, above the urethral opening and vaginal opening. The clitoral hood surrounds or covers it.

The glans contains dense sensory tissue, so more pressure is not automatically better. Sensation varies across people and moments. Begin gently and use direct feedback.

The internal clitoral complex

Behind the glans, the clitoral body extends inward and divides into two crura. Vestibular bulbs lie deeper on either side of the vaginal opening. These erectile structures fill with blood during arousal. Their three-dimensional relationship to the urethra and vagina is described in peer-reviewed anatomy reviews from O'Connell and colleagues and Puppo.

The full structure explains why the word clitoris should not be used only for the visible glans. It also explains why sensation is not limited to one tiny point.

Landmarks and normal variation

Clinical references from Cleveland Clinic and NCBI Bookshelf distinguish the glans, body, crura, and bulbs. Size, shape, visibility, and hood coverage vary. A body does not need to match a simplified illustration to be normal.

For a location-first explanation, use the step-by-step guide. To compare openings, use the vulva anatomy guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is the clitoris only the visible glans?

No. The visible glans is one part of a larger clitoral complex that includes the body, paired crura, and vestibular bulbs.

Where is the clitoral glans?

It is usually near the top of the vulva where the inner labia meet, above the urethral and vaginal openings.

Sources

• Cleveland Clinic: Clitoris
• NCBI Bookshelf: Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Female External Genitalia
• O'Connell et al.: Anatomy of the Clitoris
• Puppo: Anatomy and Physiology of the Clitoris

This page is adult anatomy education, not medical advice.