Perineal Tears: Understanding the Degrees of Severity

The perineum is the area between the anus and the genitals. It is divided into four degrees, based on the extent of the tear:

First-degree tear: This is a small tear that does not involve the anal sphincter muscle.

Second-degree tear: This is a tear that involves the anal sphincter muscle, but not the entire thickness of the muscle.

Third-degree tear: This is a tear that involves the entire thickness of the anal sphincter muscle.

Fourth-degree tear: This is a tear that extends into the rectum.