Body & health

Perineum

Alsoperineal areaperineal

Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.

Definition

The perineum is the area of skin and muscle between the genitals and the anus. It supports the pelvic organs and is part of the pelvic floor.

At a glance

  • The perineum is the area of skin and muscle between the genitals and the anus.
  • Its muscles are part of the pelvic floor and help control the bladder and bowel.
  • It also plays a part in sexual response.
  • It can tear or be cut (episiotomy) during vaginal childbirth.
  • Persistent pain or bladder or bowel problems can be discussed with a doctor or pelvic health physiotherapist.

In detail

In people with a vulva, the perineum lies between the vaginal opening and the anus; in people with a penis, between the scrotum and the anus. Beneath the skin are muscles that help control the bladder and bowel and that play a part in sexual response.

The perineum can tear or be cut (episiotomy) during vaginal childbirth, and healing is a common focus of postnatal care. Pain in the area that persists, or problems with bladder or bowel control, can be discussed with a doctor or a pelvic health physiotherapist.

In a sentence

  • The midwife explained how the perineum is usually checked after birth.
  • The physiotherapist said the perineum and pelvic floor muscles work closely together.

Where the word comes from

From Late Latin perineum, borrowed from a Greek anatomical term for the area near the anus.

Common questions

What is a perineal tear?

It is a tear in the skin and sometimes the muscles of the perineum that can happen during vaginal childbirth. Many are minor and heal well; some need stitches and follow-up. Healing is a common focus of postnatal care, and ongoing pain or bladder or bowel problems should be raised with a midwife, doctor or pelvic health physiotherapist.

What is an episiotomy?

An episiotomy is a cut made by a clinician in the perineum during childbirth to widen the vaginal opening when needed. It is stitched afterwards, and recovery is part of postnatal care.

Related terms

Sources

  1. MedlinePlusPelvic Floor Disorders
  2. Planned ParenthoodSexual and reproductive anatomy