The transverse perinei are paired muscles running from the ischial tuberosities to the central perineal body (perineal body), which is the fibromuscular node where multiple perineal structures converge and attach. The superficial transverse perineus is the thin surface layer; the deep transverse perineus (deep transverse perinei) is more substantial and contributes to the urogenital diaphragm. Obstetric perineal tears through the perineal body disrupt multiple muscles simultaneously.
| Origin | Inner surface of the ischial tuberosity and ischial ramus |
|---|---|
| Insertion | Central perineal tendon (perineal body) |
| Nerve Supply | Perineal branch of the pudendal nerve (S2, S3, S4) |
| Blood Supply | Perineal artery |
| Actions |
|
|---|
The perineal body is the central structural hub of the perineum, and the transverse perinei muscles are its primary lateral supports. By pulling the perineal body toward the ischial tuberosities on each side, they maintain the structural integrity of the perineum and resist the downward forces of intra-abdominal pressure.
Obstetric third and fourth degree perineal tears disrupt the transverse perinei, bulbospongiosus, and external anal sphincter at the perineal body. Anatomical repair of each layer including the transverse perinei at primary repair reduces faecal incontinence rates. The perineal body can be assessed by bimanual examination between the posterior vaginal wall and anterior rectal wall.
The perineal body is palpable by pinching the tissue between the vaginal opening and the anus. Its fullness and muscular tone indicate perineal body integrity.
Obstetric or traumatic perineal body damage disrupting the transverse perinei and adjacent structures producing perineal descent, faecal and urinary incontinence, and vaginal wall prolapse.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
