Support of Pelvic Organs

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The pelvic organs are supported by the following muscles and ligaments:

  1. Pelvic Diaphragm (Floor) - composed of the following muscles:

    • Coccygeus muscle

    • Levator ani muscles

      • iliococcygeus

      • pubococcygeus

      • puborectalis - this muscle forms a U-shaped sling around the anorectal junction causing a 90-degree perineal flexure. This muscle is important in maintaining fecal continence.

  2. Urogenital Diaphragm

    • Deep transverse perineal muscle

    • Sphincter urethra muscle

  3. Transverse Cervical Ligament - a condensation of endopelvic fascia that extends laterally from the cervix to the side wall of the pelvis

  4. Uterosacral Ligament - a condensation of endopelvic fascia that extends posteriorly from the cervix to the sacrum

  5. Pubocervical Ligament - a condensation of endopelvic fascia that extends anteriorly from the cervix to the pubic symphysis