What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic muscles support the bladder, bowel, and (for women) the uterus. When they contract, the organs are lifted and the openings to the anus, urethra, and (for women) the vagina. In this way, the muscles can relax and urine and feces can be released from the body. The pelvic floor is a “sling” of muscles, much like a hammock, that runs between the pubic bone in the front and the tailbone at the back. The urethra and the anus pass through the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles help you control your bladder, bowels, and sexual functions.
Factors like childbirth, aging, obesity, heavy lifting, and chronic coughing cause your pelvic floor muscles to weaken. Effects of weakened floor muscles include incontinence, uncontrollable flatulence, and/or painful sex.