Questions: Part A What happens when the external urethral sphincter is voluntarily relaxed at the same time that the pelvic splanchnic nerves are active? urinary retention micturition pyelonephritis dysuria Submit Request Answer

The answer is the second one: micturition.

Explanation for each option:

1. Urinary retention: This occurs when there is an inability to empty the bladder completely. It is typically associated with the contraction of the external urethral sphincter or other obstructions, not its relaxation.

2. Micturition: This is the process of urination, where urine is expelled from the bladder. When the external urethral sphincter is voluntarily relaxed and the pelvic splanchnic nerves are active, it facilitates the process of micturition. The pelvic splanchnic nerves stimulate the detrusor muscle of the bladder to contract, and the relaxation of the external urethral sphincter allows urine to pass through the urethra.

3. Pyelonephritis: This is a type of urinary tract infection that affects the kidneys. It is not directly related to the voluntary relaxation of the external urethral sphincter or the activity of the pelvic splanchnic nerves.

4. Dysuria: This refers to painful or difficult urination. It is a symptom rather than a process and is not directly caused by the voluntary relaxation of the external urethral sphincter.

In summary, the voluntary relaxation of the external urethral sphincter, combined with the activity of the pelvic splanchnic nerves, results in micturition.