Nerve plexus of the pelvis

Autonomic nerves are demonstrated. The superior hypogastric plexus is a continuation of the aortic (intermesenteric) plexus. It divides into left and right hypogastric nerves as it enters the pelvis. The hypogastric and pelvic splanchnic nerves merge to form the inferior hypogastric plexuses, which thus consist of both sympathetic and parasympathetic fibers. Autonomic (sympathetic) fibers also enter the pelvis via the sympathetic trunks and periarterial plexuses.