Pelvic Floor Overview

The Pelvic Floor is located at the base of the pelvis, consisting of 14 muscles that stretch from the pubic bone to the tailbone.  They function together like a hammock to support pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum), manage bladder/bowel control, and assist with hip and core stability.

The human abdomen is filled with heavy, fluid-rich organs (the bladder, intestines, and uterus or prostate) that are constantly being pulled downward by gravity.  The "floor" in pelvic floor means these muscles act as the physical foundation that keeps those organs from falling out of the bottom of your pelvic hammock.

The pelvic floor actually consists of three layers:

• The Deep Layer (Levator Ani): This is the "heavy lifter." It does 80% of the work in holding the organs up.  The prostate (in men) and the rectum (in both men and women) rest immediately upon the upper surface of this muscle layer.

• The Middle Layer: Primarily handles the "valves" (the sphincters) for the urethra and anus.

• The Superficial Layer: Mostly involved in sexual function and external stability.

When the deep layer is toned, it lifts the prostate and rectum into their correct anatomical positions. When it is weak, these organs "sag," leading to poor drainage in the prostate and the pressure that causes hemorrhoids in the rectum.  This is why it's important for both men and women to maintain pelvic floor health as we age.

Next topic:  Urinary & Bowel Control