Pelvic floor muscle

Pelvic Floor Muscle

The pelvic floor muscles support the pelvic organs.

The Pelvic Floor Muscle is a layer of muscles that stretch like a hammock from the tailbone at the back, to the pubic bone in front. A part of the Pelvic girdle, these muscles support the bladder, bowel, and in women, the uterus.

Anatomy

The pelvic floor muscles consist of two layers: the superficial layer and the deep layer. The superficial layer includes the bulbospongiosus, ischiocavernosus, superficial transverse perineal, and external anal sphincter muscles. The deep layer includes the levator ani and the coccygeus muscles.

Muscles of the female perineum.

Function

The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and sexual function. They also provide support to the organs that lie on it. The integrity of the pelvic floor muscles is crucial for pelvic organ prolapse.

Clinical significance

Damage or weakening of the pelvic floor muscles can lead to pelvic floor disorders. These include urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, can help strengthen these muscles.

See also

• Pelvic girdle
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Kegel exercise