Pelvic Floor Anatomy 101

What is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that form a bowl-like structure at the base of your pelvis. These muscles support your pelvic organs including the bladder, uterus, and bowel.

The Three Layers

Superficial Layer: Includes the bulbocavernosus, ischiocavernosus, and transverse perineal muscles. These assist with sexual function.

Intermediate Layer: Includes the urethral and anal sphincters that help control continence.

Deep Layer: Includes the levator ani and coccygeus muscles that provide primary support for organs.

Key Functions

• Supporting pelvic organs
• Controlling bladder and bowel function
• Contributing to sexual function
• Stabilizing the spine and pelvis

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

When pelvic floor muscles are too tight (hypertonic), too weak (hypotonic), or have poor coordination, problems arise.