The female pubic bone, considered in the context of the pelvic inlet (the opening within the pelvis), generally contributes to what is known as a gynecoid shape, which is round, shallow, and open.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
The female pelvis comes in several different shapes, and the shape of the pubic bone helps determine the overall pelvic shape. While there are variations, the gynecoid pelvis is the most common type in females. The pubic arch (formed by the inferior pubic rami) is wider in gynecoid pelvises than in other types, contributing to a more rounded and open inlet.
Other pelvic types and their influence on the pubic bone's contribution:
- Android: This heart-shaped pelvis, more common in males, has a narrow pubic arch and a more prominent, angled pubic bone contribution.
- Anthropoid: This oval-shaped pelvis has a slightly wider pubic arch compared to the android pelvis, but it's still narrower than the gynecoid.
- Platypelloid: This flattened, oval-shaped pelvis has a wide pubic arch, but the overall pelvis is shallow.
Therefore, while there are variations, when referring to the "female pubic bone shape," the characteristics of the gynecoid pelvis are usually implied. The pubic arch is generally wider and the overall contribution to the pelvic inlet is more rounded and open compared to male pelves or other less common female pelvic types.
