The pubcoccygeal muscle, (also popularly referred to as the PC muscles, the Kegel muscle, the pelvic muscle and the pelvic floor) is one of a larger group of vaginal muscles located near the pelvic floor. The maintenance of these muscles is vital to sustaining overall sexual health as well as control of excretory functions. Because of the internal location of these muscles, many women are unaware of the exercise required in their daily maintenance. All too frequently women neglect these essential muscles until the first signs of incontinence.
Incontinence often occurs after childbirth. During labor, the PC muscles are stretched out of shape or damaged. Without the proper rehabilitation exercises, these muscles lose their ability to properly control excretory function. In addition many women experience sexual dysfunction as well as a loss in sensitivity and enjoyment during sexual activity. Social anxiety as well as depression often set in, as the sufferer feels inadequate in the control of their bodily functions.
The PC muscles stretch from front to back, directly below the pelvis. The muscles provide support for internal organs such as the urinary track, birth canal, urethra, uterus and rectum. The muscle is also directly involved in sexual stimulation and sensitivity as well as bladder control. The muscles are essential for proper health during pregnancy and are utilized during childbirth. Proper maintenance of the PC muscle is achieved through a group of exercises called Kegels, discovered by Dr. Kegel in 1948. Dr. Kegel had a 93% recovery rate in his patients.
