Pelvis · Irregular bone
Pelvis (Hip Bones)
The pelvis is the ring of bone at the base of the spine that connects the trunk to the legs. It supports the abdominal organs, bears body weight when sitting and standing, and forms the hip sockets.
What it is
The pelvis is formed by two hip bones (each a fusion of three bones — ilium, ischium and pubis) joined to the sacrum at the back and to each other at the front, creating a sturdy bony ring.
Where it is
At the base of the spine, between the abdomen and the legs.
What it does
Transfers the body's weight from the spine to the legs, supports and protects the bladder, bowel and reproductive organs, forms the hip joints, and (in women) shapes the birth canal.
Connections
Joints and connections
- Hip joints (with the femurs)
- Sacroiliac joints (with the spine)
- Pubic symphysis (at the front)
When things go wrong
Common injuries and conditions
- Pelvic fracture (usually from major trauma; a serious injury)
- Sacroiliac joint pain
- Pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms; it is not a diagnosis. A severe injury, a visibly deformed limb, or the inability to move or bear weight needs urgent assessment — call 999 or go to A&E for a serious injury.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
The female pelvis is generally wider and shallower than the male pelvis — an adaptation for childbirth.
Answers
Pelvis: frequently asked questions
What does the pelvis do?
The pelvis connects the spine to the legs, carries body weight when standing and sitting, forms the hip sockets, and protects the bladder, bowel and reproductive organs.
Is a broken pelvis serious?
A pelvic fracture from major force is a serious injury that can involve significant bleeding and needs emergency care. Smaller pelvic fractures in older adults after a fall are also assessed carefully.
Explore the pelvis
Related bones
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Anatomy and body systems
- Gray's Anatomy for Students (Drake, Vogl, Mitchell)
- TeachMeAnatomy — skeletal system
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