Find out where the perineum is located in women and the importance of its role.

Where is the female perineum located?

What is the perineum?

The perineum is an important anatomical structure that supports a number of vital functions in both men and women. It is a diamond-shaped area located in the lower region of the pelvis.

Its role goes far beyond mere physical support: it is essential for continence, sexuality, and in women, it plays a key role during childbirth.

1. Anatomical location of the perineum in women

The female perineum is the area between the vulva (external genitalia) and the anus. It extends from the vulvar fork, the area between the vaginal orifice and the clitoris, to the anus, forming a triangular region known as the urogenital triangle.

Anatomically, the perineum is made up of several layers of muscles and connective tissue that support pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus and rectum. These muscles are essential for maintaining urinary and fecal continence, and for supporting sexual function.

In addition, the perineum is involved in the dynamics of childbirth, as it must stretch to let the baby through during a vaginal delivery.

2. The main functions of the perineum

The perineum plays several major roles in the body:

- Pelvic organ support: the perineum supports the bladder, rectum and uterus. Weakening of the perineum can lead to prolapse, a condition in which the organs descend from their normal position.

- Continence: the perineal muscles help close the urinary and anal sphincters, controlling urination and defecation.

- Sexual function: the perineal muscles are also involved in sexual pleasure, playing a role in muscle contraction and relaxation during intercourse.

- Childbirth: during vaginal delivery, the perineum stretches to allow the baby to pass through, which can sometimes lead to perineal tears.

3. Injuries and disorders related to the perineum

The perineum, though resilient, can be prone to injury, particularly during childbirth. Around 85% of women suffer a perineal tear during vaginal delivery. These tears may be slight or more severe, requiring stitches or even perineal rehabilitation.

Other disorders can also affect this region, such as:

- Prolapses: these prolapses occur when the perineal and pelvic muscles relax too much, often after several childbirths.

- Urinary incontinence: weakening of the perineal muscles can lead to urine leakage, especially after pregnancy or with age.

- Perineal pain: some people experience chronic pain in the perineal area, caused by injury, infection or nerve compression.

4. Perineal rehabilitation: a public health issue

After childbirth, or to prevent aging, perineal reeducation is often recommended to strengthen the muscles of the perineum and pelvic floor.

Specific exercises are frequently used to help women restore muscle tone, which can help prevent incontinence and organ descent.

In France, perineal re-education is part of the recommended postnatal care following childbirth. These sessions enable women to relearn how to contract and relax their perineal muscles effectively, thereby improving their quality of life. Under certain conditions, this re-education is even reimbursed by social security.

Click here to find out about these conditions.

The perineum is a complex structure essential to well-being. It plays a crucial role in continence, sexuality and childbirth. Disorders associated with this region can have a significant impact on women's health. That's why special attention, particularly through perineal rehabilitation, is essential to maintaining a healthy perineum.

By better understanding where and how this region functions, women can take care of their perineal health and anticipate any need for care or re-education.

Ask your doctor for more information.