What Is the Perineum?
The perineum is the diamond-shaped region between the vulva and the anus in women (between the scrotum and anus in men). It sits between the pubic symphysis at the front and the coccyx (tailbone) at the back, and contains muscles, nerves, and the perineal body that support the pelvic organs and help control continence and sexual function. During childbirth, the perineum stretches to let the baby pass through the birth canal.
The perineum is often overlooked in discussions of anatomy, yet it plays a crucial role in several bodily functions and is especially important in pregnancy and childbirth. It exists in both sexes; this article focuses on the perineum in women.
Where is the perineum located?
The perineum is an anatomical region in the pelvic area, between the pubic symphysis (the front of the pelvis) and the coccyx (the tailbone). In women it lies between the vulva and the anus.
What is the structure of the perineum?
The perineum is divided into two triangles by a line drawn across the ischial tuberosities (the sitting bones):
- The anterior (urogenital) triangle, which contains the clitoris, the urethra, and the vaginal opening.
- The posterior (anal) triangle, which contains the anus and the anal sphincter.
It is supported by a muscular structure called the perineal body, an attachment point for several muscles involved in urinary and fecal continence and in sexual function.
What does the perineum do?
- Support: it supports the pelvic organs, including the bladder, intestines, and uterus.
- Continence: its muscles help control urination and defecation.
- Sexual function: the perineal body is involved in the tightening of the vagina during intercourse.
- Childbirth: the perineum is central to childbirth; its health and flexibility can affect the birthing process.
The role of the perineum in pregnancy and childbirth
The tissues of the perineum form a strong pelvic floor, which lets you stand upright and helps prevent leaking when you cough. During childbirth, the perineum stretches to let the baby pass through the birth canal. That stretching can sometimes lead to tears or the need for an episiotomy.
Caring for the perineum around birth
There's no guarantee against tearing, but several approaches are discussed for the perineum during birth (see our fuller guide to things that may help during childbirth):
- Warm compress: a warm compress on the perineum during the second stage of labor is among the techniques the World Health Organization lists.
- Birthing position: upright or side-lying positions place less pressure on the perineum than lying flat.
- Delaying pushing: waiting for the urge to push gives the perineum time to stretch.
- A controlled birth: slowing the delivery of the head eases pressure on the area.
- Water immersion: warm water softens the perineum; the evidence on its effect is mixed.
- Hands-on or hands-off technique: providers may use either during delivery.
- Perineal massage: conditions the perineum to be more supple and helps you get familiar with the stretching sensation.
Read more: Motherly, Verywell Health, and this perineal massage information sheet (PDF).
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the perineum?
In women, between the vulva and the anus; in men, between the scrotum and the anus. It spans from the pubic symphysis to the tailbone.
What is the perineum's function?
It supports the pelvic organs, helps control urination and defecation, plays a part in sexual function, and stretches during childbirth.
What is the perineal body?
A muscular structure at the center of the perineum that anchors several pelvic-floor muscles.
What happens to the perineum during childbirth?
It stretches to let the baby pass through. This can sometimes cause a tear or require an episiotomy.
Do men have a perineum?
Yes. In men it's the area between the scrotum and the anus.
