Originally published on July 24, 2023 by Vital Physiotherapy & Wellness, now part of the Bravella Health network. Original author: Vital Physiotherapy and Wellness Team.
Do you know the 5 functions of your pelvic floor?
✨SUPPORTIVE
These muscles support your organs against gravity and increased abdominal pressure such as when coughing or sneezing, during pregnancy and even when jumping.[1]
✨SPHINCTERIC
Your pelvic floor muscles control the opening and closing of your urethra and rectum, ensuring that stool and urine are held in when you want them to be and released when you are ready to “go”.[1]
✨SEXUAL
This muscle group provides tone for the rectal and vaginal canals and play a role in orgasm, sexual sensation and sexual satisfaction![1,3]
✨SUMP PUMP
These muscles act as a ‘sump pump’ for your veins and lymph system, pumping the blood and lymph back to our heart with every muscular contraction!
✨STABILITY
Your pelvic floor muscles manage intra-abdominal pressure and work with your deep abdominal muscles, deep back muscles and diaphragm to stabilize and support your spine and pelvis during daily movements!![1,2]
Ready to take control of your pelvic health? Book an assessment with us now! We can’t wait to support you!
References
- Bordoni B, Sugumar K, Leslie SW. Anatomy, abdomen and pelvis: pelvic floor. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2026. Updated May 13, 2026. Accessed September 24, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482200/
- Hodges PW, Sapsford R, Pengel LHM. Postural and respiratory functions of the pelvic floor muscles. Neurourol Urodyn. 2007;26(3):362-371. doi:10.1002/nau.20232
- Jorge CH, Bø K, Catai CC, et al. Pelvic floor muscle training as treatment for female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2024;231(1):51-66.e1. doi:10.1016/j.ajog.2024.01.001
