Nerve to levator ani

Nerve to levator ani

The nerve to levator ani is a nerve that innervates the levator ani muscle, which is a crucial component of the pelvic floor. This nerve plays a significant role in maintaining the function and integrity of the pelvic floor, which supports the pelvic organs and assists in various bodily functions such as urination, defecation, and sexual function.

Anatomy

The nerve to levator ani originates from the sacral plexus, specifically from the anterior rami of the third and fourth sacral nerves (S3 and S4). It travels through the pelvic cavity to reach the levator ani muscle.

Function

The primary function of the nerve to levator ani is to provide motor innervation to the levator ani muscle. This muscle group includes the pubococcygeus, puborectalis, and iliococcygeus muscles. These muscles work together to support the pelvic organs, maintain continence, and facilitate childbirth.

Clinical Significance

Damage or dysfunction of the nerve to levator ani can lead to various medical conditions, including pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and fecal incontinence. Proper functioning of this nerve is essential for the overall health and stability of the pelvic floor.

Related Pages

• Pelvic floor
• Sacral plexus
• Levator ani
• Pubococcygeus muscle
• Puborectalis muscle
• Iliococcygeus muscle
• Urinary incontinence
• Fecal incontinence
• Pelvic organ prolapse