Third-degree tear
Medical term · T
A tear during childbirth which extends downwards from the vaginal wall and perineum to the anal sphincter, the muscle that controls the anus.
Related terms
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Anal sphincterThe muscle around the anus that is squeezed to prevent passing wind or opening the bowels involuntarily.
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SphincterA ring of muscle that surrounds an opening and can be contracted to close the opening. For example, the muscles found at the anus and the opening of the bladder are sphincters.
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PerineumThe area of skin between the vagina and the anus.
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AnusThe opening of the rectum to the outside of the body.