What is Intergluteal Cleft? Sore, Rashes, Skin Problems
What is Intergluteal Cleft?
The intergluteal cleft, also called the natal cleft, butt crack, or cluneal cleft is the gap between the butts that extends from just beneath the sacrum to the perineum. It gets its name from being the obvious demarcation line between the externally shaped protrusions of the gluteus maximus muscles. The term "bum crack" (UK) or "butt crack" is used casually to refer to the intergluteal cleft (US). You can find the intergluteal cleft above the anus.
The intergluteal cleft is an anatomically significant indentation seen naturally between the buttocks. Moreover, those who are overweight or have poor hygiene are more likely to develop discomfort, infections, and other medical problems in this area. The intergluteal cleft can be protected against infection with regular cleaning and caring.
Intergluteal Cleft Sores
The space between the buttocks is called the intergluteal cleft, commonly referred to as the "butt crack." Ulcers in this region can be quite bothersome to the patient and can be brought on by a wide number of circumstances. The following are a few possible causes of intergluteal cleft sores:
- In the intergluteal cleft, there may be friction between the skin layers, which can irritate the area and lead to ulcers. Sweating or wearing restrictive clothing may cause this.
- Infections and sores can develop if the region is not maintained dry and clean, as this will allow bacteria and fungus to proliferate.
- The intergluteal cleft can be affected by psoriasis, eczema, or dermatitis, which can leave blisters and cause discomfort.
- Some women have painful lumps and sores due to ingrown hairs when their pubic hair grows into the intergluteal cleft.
Intergluteal Cleft Rashes
Intergluteal cleft rashes, also known as intertrigo, are a common inflammatory skin condition caused by skin-to-skin friction and intensified by heat and moisture. Symptoms of intertrigo include a red or reddish-brown rash that can appear anywhere skin rubs together or traps wetness. It is commonly seen in the skin between the buttocks (butt crack), which can become very raw, itchy, and painful.
Intertrigo can be caused by fungal infections such as tinea cruris, skin inflammations such as eczema, contact irritant dermatitis, or intestinal worm infections. Treatment for intergluteal cleft rashes depends on the cause of the rash and may include topical antifungal creams, steroid creams, antibiotics, or antihistamines.
Intergluteal Cleft Skin Problems
Skin issues in the intergluteal cleft are frequent and can be brought on by a number of things, such as ingrown hairs, bad hygiene, and friction. Intertrigo, which manifests as a red or reddish-brown rash anywhere skin rubs against itself or collects moisture, is the most typical intergluteal cleft skin issue. Itching and burning are also common reactions to intertrigo.
Another intergluteal cleft skin issue called a pilonidal cyst is brought on by a skin infection in the buttock crease. These cysts frequently have ingrown hairs inside, and they can result in dimples or significant swelling between the buttocks. Similar to intertrigo, pilonidal cysts can also result in discomfort, abscesses, and other signs and symptoms.
Additional factors that contribute to intergluteal cleft skin issues include friction from wearing tight clothing or being overweight, as well as poor hygiene in the buttock region, which can promote skin breakdown and uncomfortable sores.