Introduction: A historical review regarding the discovery of the clitoris and the ongoing journey to understanding the true function and anatomy of the organ. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed for papers published regarding clitoral anatomy and the history of the clitoris. Results: While credit for clitoral discovery in Western civilization is generally provided to Italian doctor Mateo Colombo back in 1559, true discovery of the organ predates this by centuries. As early as 400 B.C., Hippocrates described the clitoris as a protrusion which functioned to protect the vagina. In the second century A.D., Greek physician Rufus of Ephesus described an anatomic zone called the “kleitoris”, an area which he associated with female masturbation. However, other anatomists of the time would entirely disregard the existence, failing to mention the organ entirely in their anatomical texts. Given the religious and cultural influences of the time, the clitoris was generally either disregarded or demonized. By the Middle Ages, it was sometimes colloquially referred to as “the devil’s teat.” One French anatomist considered it part of a woman’s “shameful anatomy.” In fact, cliteroidectomy was a commonly utilized medical practice to treat ailments of the time such as "hysteria." While the masses continued to view the organ without favor, some physicians in the 19th century accurately wrote about both the internal and external clitoral structures, giving details regarding blood and nerve supply. However, theories which clouded the clitoris in shame continued to prevail until the late 20th century. Current work, as recent as 2005, from O’Connell, Sanjeevan, and Hutson published in The Journal of Urology finally shed much needed light on the true extent of this multi-planar organ of female sexual pleasure. Conclusions: It is no wonder that even extending into the present day, the clitoris remains somewhat of an elusive mystery to the masses. As physicians, we are recently beginning to fully discover the true anatomy and function of the organ. With continued proper education, the future of the clitoris will be much brighter than its confusing past. SOURCE OF Funding: N/A
