Pelvic floor; pelvic diaphragm muscular and fascial structure that forms base of pelvis

Описание: The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that form a supportive sling at the base of the pelvis. It plays a vital role in supporting pelvic organs, maintaining continence, and enabling childbirth and sexual function.

📍 Anatomy of the Pelvic Floor
Muscles (main components):

Levator ani group

Puborectalis: forms a sling around the rectum, maintains the anorectal angle.

Pubococcygeus: supports pelvic organs, contributes to continence.

Iliococcygeus: provides structural support.

Coccygeus (ischiococcygeus): assists in supporting pelvic organs and stabilizing the coccyx.

Connective tissue & fascia: Reinforce the muscular layer.

Openings: The pelvic floor has gaps for the urethra, vagina (in females), and rectum.

🌟 Functions
Support: Holds pelvic organs (bladder, uterus/prostate, rectum) in place.

Continence: Works with sphincters to control urination and defecation.

Childbirth: Stretches to allow passage of the baby.

Sexual function: Contributes to arousal and orgasm.

Stability: Helps maintain posture and intra-abdominal pressure.

🩺 Clinical Importance
Pelvic floor dysfunction: Weakness or injury can cause urinary/fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or sexual dysfunction.

Childbirth trauma: Vaginal delivery may stretch or tear pelvic floor muscles.

Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels): Strengthen muscles, improve continence, and enhance sexual health.

Surgical relevance: Repair of prolapse or incontinence often involves pelvic floor reconstruction

#pelvicfloorhealth