GENERAL INFORMATION
The superficial perineal pouch is the region between the pubic symphysis and the coccyx, located between the thighs. It contains various structures, including muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and genitals. The perineum plays a role in supporting pelvic organs. It is also involved in sexual function, urination, as well as defecation.
SUPERFICIAL PERINEAL POUCH
It is a potential space located in the perineum between the perineal membrane and the superficial fascia. It contains several structures, including muscles, blood vessels, nerves, as well as glands.
ORIGIN
The superficial perineal pouch is formed by the inferior fascia of the urogenital diaphragm (perineal membrane). It is a fibrous sheet separating the superficial as well as deep perineal spaces.
INSERTION POINT
The superficial perineal pouch extends from the posterior aspect of the pubic symphysis to the perineal body.
MAJOR ARTERIES
Branches of the internal pudendal artery supply the superficial perineal pouch. It includes the posterior scrotal or labial arteries as well as the superficial perineal artery.
NEURAL INNERVATION
The structures within the superficial perineal pouch receive innervation from the pudendal nerve (S2-S4), which provides sensory and motor innervation to the perineum.
TRIGGER POINT
Trigger points within the muscles of the superficial perineal pouch can cause pain and discomfort in the perineal region.
CONCENTRIC FUNCTION
The muscles within the superficial perineal pouch contract concentrically during activities such as sexual arousal, maintaining erectile function, and assisting in the expulsion of semen or vaginal secretions.
ECCENTRIC FUNCTION
The muscles within the superficial perineal pouch relax eccentrically to allow for the expansion of the perineal tissues during childbirth or sexual intercourse.
ISOMETRIC FUNCTION
The muscles within the superficial perineal pouch can contract isometrically to maintain stability. It also supports the perineal region.
RELATED MUSCLE SCIENTIFIC NAMES
- Bulbospongiosus: This muscle aids in erection, ejaculation, and the tightening of the vaginal opening.
- Ischiocavernosus: This muscle helps maintain the penile or clitoral erection by compressing outflow veins.
- Superficial transverse perineal muscle: This muscle provides support to the perineal body as well as stabilises the pelvic floor.
ANTAGONIST MUSCLES
- Deep, transverse perineal muscle: This muscle works to stabilise and support the pelvic floor, opposing the superficial muscles.
- Levator ani: This group of muscles supports pelvic organs and assists in maintaining continence, working against the superficial muscles for balanced function.
COMMON INJURIES
- Perineal tears during childbirth: Tears in the perineum occur during vaginal delivery, varying in severity.
- Strain or sprain of the muscles within the superficial perineal pouch: Overstretching or tearing of these muscles leads to pain and discomfort.
- Perineal trauma from accidents or falls: Injuries to the perineal area caused by external impacts, leading to bruising, swelling, or more severe damage.
EXERCISES
- Kegel exercises: Strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, including those within the superficial perineal pouch, by contracting and relaxing them repeatedly.
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises: Improve perineal muscle strength and control through targeted contractions and relaxations.
- Squats: Engage the perineal muscles and improve pelvic stability by lowering the body into a seated position and standing up.
STRETCHES
- Butterfly stretch: Stretches the inner thighs and perineal muscles by sitting with the soles of the feet together and gently pressing the knees towards the ground.
- Happy baby pose: Releases tension in the perineum and lower back by lying on the back and holding the feet with the hands while drawing the knees towards the chest.
- Seated forward fold: Stretches the hamstrings and perineal area by sitting with the legs extended and reaching forward towards the feet.
- Child’s pose: Stretches the perineum and relaxes the pelvic floor muscles by kneeling and bending forward to rest the forehead on the ground.