Perineum, Anatomy, Function & Conditions
The area of the body between the anus and the vulva in females, and between the anus and the scrotum in males. Read the article to know more.
Nivedita Dar6 Aug, 2024
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Perineum: The Support Of Pelvic And Gastrointestinal Organs
Perineum is an anatomical region in the base of the pelvis. It is located between the thigh and represents the most inferior part of the pelvic outlet. Like any space in the human body, the pelvis also has an inlet and an outlet. The outlet of the pelvis is bound by muscles of the pelvic floor. Perineum is the region superficial to these muscles.Boundaries
Anatomical boundaries
The perineum is a diamond-shaped structure. The anatomical borders of the perineum are: Anterior – pubic symphysis. Posterior – tip of the coccyx. Laterally – inferior pubic rami and inferior, ischial rami, and the sacrotuberous ligament. Roof – pelvic floor. Base – skin and fascia.Contents
Perineum is the structure which supports and holds pelvic and genitourinary organs. The perineum can be subdivided by a theoretical line drawn transversely between the ischial tuberosities. This split forms the anterior urogenital and posterior anal triangles.Urogenital angle
The urogenital triangle is the anterior half of the perineum. It is bounded by the pubic symphysis, ischiopubic rami, and a theoretical line between the two ischial tuberosities. The triangle is associated with the structures of the urogenital system – the external genitalia and urethra. The urogenital triangle has an additional layer of strong deep fascia; the perineal membrane Perineal membrane has pouches on its superior and inferior surfaces. Deep perineal pouch contains part of the urethra, external urethral sphincter, and the vagina in the female. In males, it also contains the bulbourethral glands and the deep transverse perineal muscles. Perineal membrane is a layer of tough fascia, which is perforated by the urethra (and the vagina in the female). The role of the membrane is to provide attachment for the muscles of the external genitalia. Superficial perineal pouch is a potential space between the perineal membrane (superiorly) and the superficial perineal fascia (inferiorly). It contains the erectile tissues that form the penis and clitoris, and three muscles – the ischiocavernosus, bulbospongiosus and superficial transverse perineal muscles.Anal triangle
The anal triangle is a part of the perineum, the region between the thighs that includes the genitals and anus. Specifically, the anal triangle is the area around the anus. It is shaped like a triangle and has the anus at its center. This area includes muscles and tissues that help control bowel movements and support the pelvic organs. It's an important part of the body for maintaining continence and overall pelvic health.Perineal Body
The perineal body is an irregular fibromuscular mass. It is located at the junction of the urogenital and anal triangles – the central point of the perineum. This structure contains skeletal muscle, smooth muscle and collagenous and elastic fibers.Perineum FAQs
What is episiotomy?
Episiotomy (a surgical cut in the perineum) . This inevitably causes damage to the vaginal mucosa, but prevents uncontrolled tearing of the perineal body during vaginal delivery of the baby.
What is the nerve supply of the perineum?
The major neurovascular supply to the perineum is from the pudendal nerve (S2 to S4) and the internal pudendal artery.
Which gland is located within the superficial perineal pouch of the urogenital triangle?
The Bartholin’s glands are located within the superficial perineal pouch of the urogenital triangle. Their role is to make a small amount of mucus-like fluid.
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