The pelvis is the most reliable bone for determination of sex; the skull is the next most reliable.
Pelvis (most reliable)
| Feature | Male Pelvis | Female Pelvis |
|---|---|---|
| General build | Heavy and thick | Light and thin |
| Pelvic cavity | Narrow and deep | Wide and shallow |
| Pelvic inlet | Heart-shaped | Circular / Oval |
| Pelvic outlet | Small | Large |
| Subpubic angle | < 70° (narrow / acute) | > 80–90° (wide) |
| Sacrum | Long and narrow | Short and broad |
| Greater sciatic notch | Narrow | Wide |
| Ischial spines | Project medially | Less prominent |
| Obturator foramen | Large and oval | Smaller and triangular |
| Acetabulum | Large | Small |