External anal sphincter

Definition

The external anal sphincter is a ring of muscle located at the end of the rectum that controls the passage of feces out of the body. It is voluntarily controlled, allowing individuals to decide when to defecate.

Related terms

Rectum: The final section of the large intestine that holds feces before they are expelled from the body.

Internal Anal Sphincter: A ring of involuntary smooth muscle that helps control the passage of feces out of the body, working in conjunction with the external anal sphincter.

Defecation: The process of expelling feces from the rectum through the anus to the outside environment