Almost 30 years after the intricate web of nerves inside the penis was mapped, researchers have completed the first 3D mapping of the clitoral nerves, revealing new details about one of the least-studied human organs. The work, led by Ju Young Lee at Amsterdam University Medical Center, used high-energy X-rays to scan donated female pelvises, producing unprecedented images of the five tree-like nerve branches that run through the clitoris.
The scans show that some clitoral nerves extend to the mons pubis and clitoral hood, while others reach the labial structures. Crucially, the images contradict previous anatomical teachings: the dorsal nerve of the clitoris does not diminish as it approaches the glans but continues strongly to the end. The widest nerve branch measured 0.7mm across.
Helen O'Connell, a Melbourne urologist who published the first comprehensive clitoral anatomy study in 1998, said the organ has been 'deleted intellectually by the medical and scientific community'. The clitoris did not appear in standard anatomy textbooks until the 20th century, and Gray's Anatomy described it as 'a small version of the penis' as recently as 1995.
The findings could improve outcomes for women undergoing pelvic surgery, including reconstruction after female genital mutilation, vulvar cancer surgery, gender reassignment, and cosmetic procedures like labiaplasty. About 22% of women who have reconstructive surgery after mutilation experience reduced orgasmic function, and better nerve mapping may help preserve sensation.
Georga Longhurst, head of anatomical sciences at St George's, University of London, said she was 'especially fascinated by the high-resolution images within the glans, the most sensitive part of the clitoris, as these terminal nerve branches are impossible to see during dissection'. The study has been posted on the preprint server bioRxiv and has not yet been peer reviewed.
