The musculus levator ani, also known as the levator ani muscle, is a paired muscle located in the pelvic floor region of the human body. It is an important part of the musculature that supports the organs in the pelvic area, including the rectum, vagina (in females), and the urinary bladder. The term "musculus levator ani" is derived from Latin, where "musculus" translates to "muscle," "levator" translates to "lifting," and "ani" refers to the anus.
The levator ani muscle consists of two main parts: the puborectalis muscle and the pubococcygeus muscle. The puborectalis muscle forms a sling-like structure around the anal canal, helping to maintain the anorectal angle and providing voluntary control over the passage of feces. The pubococcygeus muscle lies adjacent to the puborectalis muscle and contributes to the overall support of the pelvic organs.
The musculus levator ani plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It aids in maintaining continence by assisting in the closure of the urethra and anus. It also plays a role in supporting the internal organs, preventing prolapse or descent into the pelvic cavity. Additionally, the muscle is involved in sexual functions, as it contracts during orgasm.
Disorders or weakening of the musculus levator ani can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction, resulting in symptoms such as urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse. Physical therapy exercises, such as kegel exercises, can help strengthen the levator ani muscle and improve pelvic floor function.
