Ischiocavernosus

General information

Ischiocavernosus is a perineal muscle situated in the perineal space superficially within the urogenital triangle. Along with the bulbospongiosus and superficial transverse perineal muscles, it makes up the superficial perineal muscles.

Literal meaning

The muscle of the hip and tissue full of hollow spaces.

Interesting information

This muscle’s insertion depends on the sex of the person. In males it inserts into the crura of the penis and in females, into the crura of the clitoris. Neural inputs causing Ischiocavernosus contraction allow maintenance of penile or clitoral erections during sexual arousal and intercourse.

Origin

Ischial tuberosity and ramus.

Insertion

Crus of clitoris or penis.

Function

Pushes blood from root of clitoris/penis to body i.e. maintains erection of penis/clitoris.

Nerve supply

Deep branch of perineal nerve (of pudendal nerve) (S2-S4).

Blood supply

Perineal artery.

Relevant research

There is some evidence to suggest involvement of the ischiocavernosus muscle in the process of penile rigidity.

Lavoisier, P., Courtois, F., Barres, D., & Blanchard, M. (1986). Correlation between intracavernous pressure and contraction of the ischiocavernosus muscle in man. The Journal of urology, 136(4), 936–939.

Ischiocavernosus exercises

None