Knowra Perineum Perineum The perineum is the region between the external genitalia and the anus, forming the pelvic floor’s outlet. Its structures support pelvic organs and contribute to urinary, reproductive, and bowel function.
Pelvic floor : A muscular and connective-tissue partition that supports pelvic organs and separates the pelvic cavity from the perineum. The perineum lies below this supporting partition and includes structures attached to it.
External anal sphincter : A skeletal muscle surrounding the anal canal that voluntarily helps maintain fecal continence. It closes the anal outlet within the posterior perineum.
Episiotomy : A surgical incision in the perineum made during some vaginal births to enlarge the vaginal opening. The procedure deliberately cuts perineal tissue during childbirth.
Pelvic cavity : The space within the pelvis that contains the bladder, reproductive organs, rectum, and associated structures. Unlike the perineum below it, the pelvic cavity contains most pelvic organs.
Perineal body : A central fibromuscular structure between the urogenital and anal regions where several pelvic-floor muscles attach. This central attachment point helps maintain the perineum’s structural integrity.
Bulbospongiosus muscle : A paired superficial perineal muscle involved in erectile function and, in females, constriction of the vaginal opening. It lies in the superficial perineum and acts on nearby genital structures.
Obstetric anal sphincter injury : A childbirth-related tear involving the anal sphincter, classified by the depth and structures affected. Severe perineal tears can extend into the anal sphincter.
Vulva : The external female genital structures, including the labia, clitoris, and vestibule. The vulva occupies part of the anterior perineum but is not synonymous with it.
Urogenital triangle : The anterior subdivision of the perineum, containing the external genitalia and urinary openings. It forms the front portion of the region defined as the perineum.
Ischiocavernosus muscle : A paired perineal muscle that covers the crura of erectile tissues and helps maintain erection. Its contractions influence blood retention in erectile tissues of the perineum.
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