Dictionary > Perineum

Perineum

Definition
noun, plural: perinea
(anatomy) The region between the anus and the vulva; the region between the scrotum and the anus
adjective: perineal
Of, relating to, pertaining to, or associated with the perineum
Supplement
In female, the perineum is the region between the anus and the vulva (of the vagina). In male, it is the region between the anus and the scrotum. In human anatomy, it is diamond-shaped and an erogenous zone in both males and females.1 In females, the skin on this region may be lacerated naturally during childbirth and it is referred to as perineal tear. Episiotomy is one that is intentionally cut by surgery to facilitate and aid a difficult delivery.
Word origin: Ancient Greek perínaion, períneos, from perí, (“around”) + inéō (“I empty, evacuate”)
See also:

  • Perineal muscles
  • Savages perineal body
  • Superficial transverse perineal muscle

Mentioned in:

  • Escutcheon
  • Dhobie itch
  • Rule of nines
  • Saddle anaesthesia
  • Trefoil tendon
  • Anus imperforate
  • Obstetrical binder
  • Prerectal lithotomy
  • Pudendal nerve
  • Abdominoperineal
  • Tinea inguinalis
  • Pemphigus vegetans
  • Rectovesical septum
  • Reference(s):

    1 Winkelmann, R. K. (1959). The erogenous zones: their nerve supply and significance. Mayo Clin Proc. 34(2):39-47.


    You will also like...

    Fossil trilobite imprint in the sediment
    Insects

    There are more species of insects than any other species combined. This surely illustrates that insects have the selecti..

    Still Water Community Plants
    Still Water Community Plants

    This tutorial looks at the adaptations of freshwater plants for them to thrive in still water habitats. Familiarize your..

    Biological Energy
    ATP & ADP – Biological Energy

    ATP is the energy source that is typically used by an organism in its daily activities. The name is based on its structu..

    Sugar Homeostasis
    Sugar Homeostasis

    The blood sugar level is regulated by two hormones. The mechanism behind this type of negative feedback control is descr..

    dinosaurs
    The Dinosaurs

    Dinosaurs represented a major turn in the evolutionary development of organisms on Earth. The first dinosaurs were presu..

    Balanced Diet
    A Balanced Diet – Minerals and Proteins

    Proteins and minerals can be derived from various dietary sources. They are essential for the proper growth and developm..

    Related Articles...

    No related articles found

    See all Related Topics