Corpus spongiosum

Definition

The corpus spongiosum is a spongy column of erectile tissue that surrounds the urethra in males and helps prevent it from being pinched closed during erection, ensuring ejaculation can occur. It runs along the bottom of the penis and expands at the end to form part of the glans penis.

Related terms

Urethra: The tube that carries urine from the bladder to be expelled out of the body and also transports semen in males.

Erectile Tissue: Specialized tissue capable of becoming engorged with blood, causing an erection.

Glans Penis: The bulbous end of the penis, highly sensitive and part of both urinary and reproductive systems in males