Genitofemoral nerve

A mixed nerve responsible for sensation in the groin and motor function to certain muscles in the lower abdomen.

The genitofemoral nerve is a peripheral nerve that branches from the lumbar plexus, specifically arising from the first and second lumbar nerves. It is composed of both sensory and motor fibers. The nerve travels down the psoas major muscle and divides into two branches: the genital branch and the femoral branch, each serving different functions in the body.

Terminologia Anatomica

nervus genitofemoralis

System

Nervous system

Function

The primary role of the genitofemoral nerve can be divided into two key aspects: sensory and motor functions. The genital branch provides sensory innervation to the skin of the scrotum in males and the labia majora in females, allowing for sensation in these areas. It also supplies motor fibers to the cremaster muscle, which elevates the testes during sexual arousal or when the temperature is cold, helping to regulate temperature for optimal sperm production. The femoral branch, on the other hand, extends sensory innervation to the upper anterior thigh, contributing to the overall sensation in this area. The combined function of these branches makes the genitofemoral nerve integral in both sexual health and the sensory experience of the groin region.

Location

The genitofemoral nerve is located in the abdominal region, specifically originating from the lumbar plexus formed by the first and second lumbar nerves. It travels downward along the front of the psoas major muscle and subsequently bifurcates into its two branches. The genital branch moves towards the inguinal canal to reach its destination in the groin, while the femoral branch extends towards the upper thigh region, diverging from the main path of the nerve.

Did You Know?

Damage or compression of the genitofemoral nerve can lead to loss of sensation in the groin area or muscle weakness in the lower abdomen.
The cremaster reflex, which helps protect the testes, is mediated by the motor fibers of the genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve.
In females, the genital branch also contributes to sensation in the labia, linking this nerve to both reproductive and sensory functions.