“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
The urethra is a tube-like structure that connects the bladder to the outside of the body, allowing urine to be eliminated from the body. In males, the urethra also serves as a passage for semen during ejaculation.
The length and structure of the urethra differ between males and females. In males, the urethra is longer and passes through the prostate gland, which contributes fluids to the semen. In females, the urethra is shorter and exits in front of the vaginal opening.
The urethra is lined with mucous membranes that help to protect it from bacteria and other harmful agents. Infections of the urethra, such as urethritis, can cause painful urination and other symptoms, and may require medical treatment.