The perineal membrane is a tough, roughly triangular sheet stretching across the front half of the pelvic outlet between the two ischiopubic rami. It separates the superficial perineal pouch below from the deep perineal pouch above, and the roots of the penis or clitoris attach to its lower surface.
| Location | Across the urogenital triangle of the perineum. |
|---|---|
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| Contents |
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Supports the urethra and vagina, anchors the external genitalia and divides the perineal pouches.
The membrane is an important anchor of pelvic organ support, and damage during childbirth contributes to prolapse. It is pierced by the urethra and, in females, the vagina. Urine from a ruptured spongy urethra collects below it, while injuries above it spill into the pelvis.
Tearing of the perineal membrane and perineal body during delivery weakens support of the lower vagina and urethra and can lead to prolapse.
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