Where is the frenulum located in the human body?
May 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Chenggang
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, frenula include the lingual frenulum, penile frenulum, clitoral frenulum, ileocecal valve frenulum, and upper labial frenulum, among others. Different frenula are located in various parts of the human body. If any abnormalities involving the frenula are detected, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Conditions such as an overly short or long frenulum typically require timely medical evaluation and possible surgical treatment; self-medication should be avoided.
Generally, frenula include the lingual frenulum, penile frenulum, clitoral frenulum, ileocecal valve frenulum, and maxillary (upper lip) frenulum. These frenula are located in different areas of the human body. If any abnormalities involving the frenula are detected, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Lingual Frenulum
Located beneath the tongue, this thin, membranous tissue connects the tip of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. It plays a crucial role in tongue movement and speech production.
2. Penile Frenulum
Situated on the ventral (underside) portion of the glans penis, it may be found at the lower part of the glans or within the foreskin, connecting through the coronal sulcus to the area below the urethral opening. Its primary function is to limit ventral bending of the penis.
3. Clitoral Frenulum
This structure connects the clitoris to the pubic mound and is located beneath the female clitoris. Because the labia minora contain more blood vessels than the labia majora, trauma to the clitoral frenulum tends to cause more noticeable pain and bleeding.
4. Ileocecal Valve Frenulum
The ileocecal valve is located along the medial border where the ascending colon transitions into the cecum. It consists of two lip-like mucosal folds that encircle a round opening known as the ileocecal orifice. The anterior and posterior ends where these two lips connect extend outward, forming slightly raised circular mucosal ridges—these are referred to as the ileocecal valve frenula, which also serve as the anatomical boundary between the ascending colon and the cecum.
5. Maxillary (Upper Lip) Frenulum
A small linear fold located in the midline on the inner surface of the upper lip, extending from the gum to the skin beneath the nostrils. This frenulum can influence the movement of the upper lip and normal oral function.
If a frenulum is too short, too long, or otherwise abnormal, timely medical evaluation and possible surgical intervention are usually required. Self-treatment with medications should be avoided to prevent delays in proper management due to incorrect handling.
