The Anatomy and Function of the Perineum

The anatomy and function of the perineum are an important part of a woman's reproductive system. In this article, you'll learn about the organ's anatomy, its functions, and its potential for infections. You'll also learn about treatment options. You can participate in a clinical trial if you want to improve your quality of life.

Anatomy

Perineal anatomy is complex, and a thorough understanding of its parts is vital for surgeons. The perineum is composed of two main parts: the superficial perineal pouch and the deep perineal pouch. The former is composed of a thick membrane and a base of fibrous tissue. Both of these parts support the external genital muscles. The latter is made up of three muscles and is located posteriorly to the perineal body.

The perineum is divided into two regions by an imaginary transverse line. The anterior part of this area is called the urogenital region and the posterior part is known as the anal region. In a woman's pelvis, the perineum is separated into the anterior and posterior anal regions by the obturator internus muscle.

Functions

The perineum is a structure found in the pelvic region. It is made up of four layers. These layers are the subcutaneous layer, the internal layer, the transversus layer, and the external layer. It also contains the pubourethral ligament. The perineum is located between the pelvic floor muscles and the thighs. During development, it develops in four layers: the external layer is formed by M. ischiocavernosus, the internal layer by the pubourethral ligament, and the transversus layer by the muscles of the pelvic floor.

The perineal body is a fibromuscular mass between the anal canal and the posterior edge of the perineal membrane. It serves as an attachment site for several muscles, including the superficial transverse perineal muscle.

Infections

Perineum infections are infections that occur in the perineum. These infections are also known as Fournier's gangrene, and they are more common in men than women. They may cause pain and discomfort and can lead to other serious problems. It is important to understand the causes of perineum infections and how to treat them.

Perineum infections are often caused by bacterial infections. Fournier's gangrene, for example, develops when bacteria enter the body through a cut and spread to the perineum. Although this infection is relatively rare in patients with diabetes, there is a high risk of developing it.

Treatment

Pain in the perineum can be incredibly unpleasant, making it difficult to carry out your routine activities. It can be caused by several different conditions, but most are easily treatable, requiring no more than a trip to the doctor. However, it is important not to ignore the discomfort. A trip to the doctor is the best course of action to determine the cause of the pain and the best way to address it.

Perineal massage after delivery is another way to treat this condition. It is particularly useful in preventing pain and other complications during delivery. A hematoma, a collection of blood that collects in the perineum after injury, can cause severe pain. Small hematomas may go away on their own, but large ones may need drainage. If a hematoma reaches the urethra, the tissue around it may swell, making urination difficult. Surgical intervention, such as a catheter, may be necessary to relieve the pressure.