Your Health

10 Facts About the Urinary System

What Is the Urinary System?

The urinary system is a group of major organs, including the urethra, urinary bladder, ureters, and kidneys. It works as a filter to clean and remove wastes, excess water, and toxins through urine. A group of ducts and tubes play an important role in passing waste through this system. These parts are connected to the digestive system and blood vessels. Overall, the urinary system is important in ensuring the rest of the body works properly. [1]

Kidneys

There are two kidneys in the body. These bean-shaped organs are located along the posterior wall in the abdominal cavity. Important functions of kidneys include:

– Producing hormones to help control blood pressure, improve bone health, and generate red blood cells.

– Filtering waste from toxins, medications, and food.

– Controlling minerals in the blood.

– Maintaining fluid balance.

Each minute, kidneys can filter around 1/2 cup of blood to filter blood and make urine. [2]