What classification describes a vaginal laceration involving the perineal body but not the rectal mucosa?

A vaginal laceration that involves the perineal body but does not affect the rectal mucosa is classified as a second-degree laceration. This type of laceration extends through the vaginal epithelium and perineal muscles, which are part of the perineal body, but it does not involve the anal sphincter or the rectal mucosa.

First-degree lacerations only involve the vaginal mucosa without any muscular involvement, and third-degree lacerations extend through the vaginal tissue, perineal muscles, and also involve the anal sphincter. Fourth-degree lacerations go even further, involving the anal sphincter and the rectal mucosa itself. Recognizing these classifications helps in understanding the severity of tears and guides the appropriate management and repair strategies during and after childbirth.