Originally published on January 3, 2023 by Vital Physiotherapy & Wellness, now part of the Bravella Health network. Original author: Team Vital Physiotherapy and Wellness.
There are 5 main functions of your pelvic floor – read on to learn more about them!
1. 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]
2. 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]
3. Sexual
The third function of the pelvic floor is Sexual Function – this muscle group provides tone for the rectal and vaginal canals and play a role in orgasm, sexual sensation and sexual satisfaction![1,3]
4. Sump Pump
The fourth important function of your pelvic floor is the Sump Pump/Circulatory Role. 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!
5. Stability
The last function of your pelvic floor is 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? Reach out for an appointment at Vital Physiotherapy and Wellness today!
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
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