Differences Between Male & Female Pelvis

Comparison of anatomical features between the male and female pelvis, highlighting structural differences and functional adaptations.

General Structure (Male Pelvis)

Heavy, thick

General Structure (Female Pelvis)

Light, thin

Pelvic cavity (Male Pelvis)

Narrow, deep

Pelvic cavity (Female Pelvis)

Wide, shallow

Pelvic inlet shape (Male Pelvis)

Heart-shaped

Pelvic inlet shape (Female Pelvis)

Oval/round (gynecoid)

Pelvic outlet (Male Pelvis)

Small

Pelvic outlet (Female Pelvis)

Large

Pelvic brim (Male Pelvis)

Narrow

Pelvic brim (Female Pelvis)

Wide

Subpubic angle / Pubic arch (Male Pelvis)

Narrow ($<70^{\circ}$)

Subpubic angle / Pubic arch (Female Pelvis)

Wide ($>80-90^{\circ}$)

Sacrum (Male Pelvis)

Long, narrow, curved

Sacrum (Female Pelvis)

Short, wide, less curved

Ischial spines (Male Pelvis)

Long, inverted \rightarrow narrow mid-pelvis

Ischial spines (Female Pelvis)

Short, everted \rightarrow wide mid-pelvis

Acetabulum (Male Pelvis)

Large

Acetabulum (Female Pelvis)

Small

Obturator foramen (Male Pelvis)

Round

Obturator foramen (Female Pelvis)

Oval/triangular

Greater sciatic notch (Male Pelvis)

Narrow

Greater sciatic notch (Female Pelvis)

Wide

Ilium (Male Pelvis)

More vertical

Ilium (Female Pelvis)

More flared laterally

Overall Male Pelvis Adaptation

Adapted for weight-bearing & strength

Overall Female Pelvis Adaptation

Adapted for childbirth