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AnatomyAbdomenNerves, vessels and lymphatics of the abdomenHypogastric nerve
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AnatomyAbdomenNerves, vessels and lymphatics of the abdomenHypogastric nerve

Hypogastric nerve

Author: Jana Vasković, MD • Reviewer: Roberto Grujičić, MD
Last reviewed: November 03, 2023
Reading time: 2 minutes

Right hypogastric nerve
Nervus hypogastricus dexter
Synonyms: none

The hypogastric nerve (not to be confused with the iliohypogastric nerve) is a continuation of the superior hypogastric plexus. It is a sympathetic nerve, carrying the inputs from the T12-L3 segments of the spinal cord.

The main function of the hypogastric nerve is to connect the superior and inferior hypogastric plexuses. This way, it conveys the sympathetic inputs to the inferior hypogastric plexus, which then transmits it to the viscera of the pelvic cavity via its branches and subplexuses.

This article will discuss the anatomy and function of the hypogastric nerve.

Key facts about the hypogastric nerve
Origin Superior hypogastric plexus (T12-L3)
Function Sympathetic supply to the inferior hypogastric plexus
Contents
  1. Origin, course and function
  2. Sources
+ Show all

Origin, course and function

Superior hypogastric plexus
Plexus hypogastricus superior
1/3
Synonyms: Presacral nerve, Nervus presacralis

The hypogastric nerve is seen as a bundle of fibers that connect the superior and inferior hypogastric plexuses. It passes over the anterior surface of the sacrum, and then enters the hypogastric sheath (a thickened portion of the pelvic fascia).

The fibers then diverge and join the pelvic splanchnic nerves to form the ipsilateral inferior hypogastric plexus. This way, the hypogastric nerve is the primary sympathetic source to the inferior hypogastric plexus, while the pelvic splanchnic nerves are the parasympathetic source.

The function of the hypogastric nerve reflects the sympathetic function of the inferior hypogastric plexus. Via the plexus and its branches, the hypogastric nerve gives sympathetic innervation to the rectum, urinary bladder, prostate, seminal glands, cervix of uterus and vagina.

Nerves of the male pelvis Explore study unit
Nerves of the female pelvis Explore study unit

Sources

All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. Kenhub does not provide medical advice. You can learn more about our content creation and review standards by reading our content quality guidelines.

References:

  • Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy (41st ed.). Edinburgh: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone.
  • Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2014). Clinically Oriented Anatomy (7th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
  • Netter, F. H. (2018). Atlas of Human Anatomy (7th ed.). Elsevier.

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