Inferior hypogastric plexus

Anatomy

Structure

The plexus consists of an irregular, fenestrated layer containing small ganglia.

Relations

The inferior hypogastric plexus is situated in the sagittal plane just outside the peritoneum, between the anterior sacral foramina (posteriorly), and the posterior aspect of the urinary bladder (anteriorly). It is situated lateral to the rectum and vagina, and medial to the internal iliac artery and internal iliac vein of either side.

Afferents

• hypogastric nerve – a continuation of either superior hypogastric plexus.
• sacral splanchnic nerves (from sympathetic trunk)
• pelvic splanchnic nerves (from sacral nerves S2-S4) also contribute parasympathetic efferent fibers to the plexus.

Efferents

Efferents branches form secondary plexuses that accompany the internal iliac artery along its course. They give rise to the middle and inferior rectal plexuses, vesical plexus, deferential plexus, and prostatic plexus (in males) or uterovaginal plexus (in females). Efferents of the plexus are responsible for innervating the genital erectile tissues.