Bladder

The bladder is a hollow, muscular organ located in the pelvis that stores urine before it is excreted from the body. It is part of the urinary system, which also includes the kidneys, ureters, and urethra.

Structure of the Bladder

The bladder is made up of smooth muscle known as the detrusor muscle, which contracts to expel urine from the body. It is lined with transitional epithelium, which allows it to stretch as it fills with urine. The bladder is connected to the kidneys by the ureters, which transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder. The urethra connects the bladder to the outside of the body, allowing urine to be excreted.

Function of the Bladder

The primary function of the bladder is to store urine until it can be voluntarily released from the body. When the bladder fills with urine, stretch receptors in the bladder wall send signals to the brain, indicating the need to urinate. At an appropriate time, the brain sends signals to the detrusor muscle to contract and the sphincter muscles to relax, allowing urine to be expelled from the body.

Bladder Control

Bladder control is a complex process involving the coordination of signals between the bladder, spinal cord, and brain. Disorders such as urinary incontinence and overactive bladder can disrupt normal bladder control, leading to issues with urinary function.

Study Guide

1. What is the primary function of the bladder?
2. Describe the structure of the bladder and its associated muscles.
3. Explain the process of bladder control and the role of the nervous system.
4. Discuss common disorders related to bladder function and their potential impact on an individual's quality of life.