Areas of the Pelvis

Overview

The pelvis contains several important anatomical regions that act as conduits for neurovascular structures and provide access to the perineal and gluteal compartments. This section introduces the perineum and sciatic foramina, outlining their roles in pelvic function, movement and continence. Together, these areas provide essential context for understanding pelvic neurovascular pathways and surgical approaches.

Key Structures

Topics include the perineum, with its subdivisions and muscular and fascial boundaries, and the greater and lesser sciatic foramina, which transmit major nerves and vessels between the pelvis and lower limb. Descriptions highlight key spatial relationships and functional organisation.

Clinical Relevance and Learning Focus

Knowledge of these regions supports assessment of pelvic floor disorders, pudendal nerve entrapment, perineal trauma and gluteal pathology. Understanding their boundaries and contents is essential for procedures such as nerve blocks, pelvic surgery and management of obstetric injury.

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Illustration of the perineum located between the thighs.

The Perineum

The Sciatic Foramina

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Illustration depicting the deep muscles of the gluteal region, including the quadratus femoris, obturator internus, piriformis, and gemelli muscles.
Encyclopaedia

Piriformis

by Dr Oliver Jones

Diagram illustrating the cutaneous innervation of the gluteal region.
Nerves of the Lower Limb

The Cutaneous Innervation of the Lower Limb

by Max Bidewell

Diagram illustrating the course and branches of the infraorbital nerve, including the inferior palpebral and superior labial nerves.
Encyclopaedia

Superior Labial Nerve

by Melissa Phu