What are the Pelvic Floor Muscles?

            Many of you have that worked with me, will know exactly what the pelvic floor is; if it has been a while, here is a wonderful reminder; and welcome to those who are not sure what the pelvic floor is.  Let’s dive in!

The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles that are situated at the bottom of the pelvis.  The muscles connect from pubic bone (bone in the front) to the tailbone and to each of the sit bones.  While it is termed the pelvic floor, these muscles really act as a hammock and act to lift and support the abdominal and pelvic organs in.  And who has a pelvic floor? Everyone! 

The pelvic floor muscles have several important functions.  One of their functions is to support the pelvic and abdominal organs by holding them (hence, the name floor).  The pelvic organs in the female, uterus, bladder, and rectum all sit immediately on top of the pelvic floor.  The bladder, prostate, and rectum in the male, sit immediately on top of the pelvic floor.  Above the reproductive organs in both male and females, sit the kidneys, liver, intestines, stomach, gallbladder, lungs, and all of the other organs.

Female Pelvic Floor Muscles

Second, they assist in control of urination, bowel movements, and sexual function. The pelvic floor muscles are active and contracting throughout the day and this is what normally prevents urine and stool from leaking.  Then, when you sit down on the toilet to urinate or to have a bowel movement (when males stand to urinate), then the pelvic floor muscles completely relax to allow for urine and stool to pass through and exit the body.  This coordination of the bladder and bowels with the pelvic floor is incredible.

Third, they play a role in stabilizing the pelvis, hip, and core.  The deep core muscles consist of 4 primary muscles.  The “front” of the core consists of the transverse abdominis muscle.  This muscle is your built-in corset.  The “back” of the core is the multifidus muscle.  The “top” of the core is the diaphragm which is the muscle under the lungs.  And last, but surely not least, the “bottom” of the core are the pelvic floor muscles.  When the four muscles contract and work together, they work the best.  Often if one of those muscles is not functioning as well, then the whole core is compromised and pain, leaking, constipation, urinary or stool urgency and frequency can occur.  

The male pelvic floor.

Fourth, they help with resisting increased pressure from the abdomen with coughing, laughing, sneezing, lifting, and exercise.  They also coordinate with breathing.  We will discuss the importance of deep breathing and its relationship to the pelvic floor next!  Stay tuned!