Figure 3-8. Urinary organs in relation to some of the adjacent structures
(anterior aspect).
3-16. THE URINARY BLADDER
a. The urinary bladder is a musculomembranous sac-like organ that acts as a
reservoir for the reception and storage of urine. It is in the pelvic cavity behind the
pubis, in front of the rectum in the male (figure 3-9). In the female, the bladder lies in
front of the anterior wall of the vagina and the neck of the uterus (figure 3-12b). When
empty, it lies deeply within the pelvis; when slightly distended, it has a round form; and
when greatly distended with urine, it is ovoid in shape and the fundus rises above the
symphysis pubis.
MD0956
3-16