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Anatomy


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Anatomy



The pelvic floor muscles run, like a muscular trampoline, from the tailbone (coccyx) to the pubic bone (front to back) and from one sitting bone to the other sitting bone (side to side). Although the pelvic floor is hidden from view, it can be consciously controlled and therefore trained, just like any other muscle in your body.


The muscle is divided into a superficial - and a deep layer.


The superficial muscles include:

o Bulbospongioisis

o Ischiocavernosis

o Superficial transverse perineal muscle

o Urethral and anal sphincter muscles


The superficial muscles are more commonly associated with vulvar pain syndromes.


The deep layer consists of the Levator Ani muscle group and the Coccygeus. The Obturator Internus and Piriformis muscles also play a role in pelvic floor muscle function.


The pelvic floor has unique innervation and is never completely at rest, which helps us maintain continence but also comes with certain consequences in the face of dysfunction and treatment options.



Front View





Inferior View





Side View 1





Side View 2





Inferior View: Perineum Lying On Your Back





Muscle Layers - Inferior View





Muscle Layers - Superior View





Pudendal Nerve





The pudendal nerve arises from S2-4 nerve roots and is responsible for sensation for part of the vulva and vestibule, distal portion of the urethra and rectum, anal sphincter, perineum, vaginal mucosa, and pelvic floor muscles. It is a unique, mixed nerve with autonomic fibres in addition to its sensory and motor components.



Function of the Pelvic Floor



• Pelvic and spinal (trunk) stability

• Increase in intra-abdominal pressure for function (to cough)

• Supports the pelvic organs to prevent prolapse

• Anal support during defecation, eccentric relaxation to allow defecation

• Anal closure after defecation

• Bladder inhibition to control the urge to void

• Urethral closure pressure to prevent leaking of urine

• Sexual function





Suite 13, Netcare Pretoria East Hospital
Cnr Garsfontein Road & Netcare Ave
Pretoria East



Antoinette Jansen van Vuuren