Anatomy
Otherwise referred to as the fourchette, this is the meeting of the labia minora behind the vagina, in front of the anus (their anterior meeting/junction swaddles the clitoris as prepuce and frenulum). It is part of the vulva (external genital organs – including mons, clitoris, urethra/vaginal orifices, labia majora/minora), itself part of the perineum (the pelvic outlet, a surface area, roughly diamond-shaped, between pubic symphysis and coccyx).
Physiology
Stretches during childbirth to accommodate passage of baby (head being biggest challenge).
Clinical
Can tear during childbirth. Tear can be irregular. Episiotomy (perineal cut) often planned and performed to prevent irregular tear; usually made as postero-lateral to avoid potential involvement of perineal body and compromise of anal sphincter. Controversial, becoming less frequent.
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