Perineum

In human anatomy, the perineum (/pɛrəˈniːəm/; Late Latin, from Greek περίνεος - perineos) is a region of the body including the perineal /pɛrəˈniːəl/ body and surrounding structures. There is some variability in how the boundaries are defined. According to some definitions, in females it is located between the vagina and anus and in males between the scrotum and anus.

It is an erogenous zone for both males and females.Perineal tears and episiotomy often occur in childbirth with first-time deliveries, but the risk of these injuries can be reduced by preparing the perineum, often through massage.

Structure

The perineum is generally defined as the surface region in both males and females between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx. The perineum is below the pelvic diaphragm and between the legs. It is a diamond-shaped area that includes the anus and, in females, the vagina. Its definition varies: it can refer to only the superficial structures in this region, or it can be used to include both superficial and deep structures. The perineum corresponds to the outlet of the pelvis.