pubococcígeos

Pubococcígeos, or pubococcygeus muscles, are paired muscles that form part of the pelvic floor. They are part of the levator ani group, along with the iliococcygeus and puborectalis. Each muscle runs from the pubic bone to the coccyx, encircling the lower pelvic organs.

Function: They help support the bladder, uterus (in females), and rectum, contributing to continence by aiding urethral and anal closure. They also assist in sexual function by providing pelvic floor contractions during arousal and orgasm.

Anatomy and innervation: The muscles originate from the posterior pubic rami and insert on the coccyx and the anococcygeal body. They are primarily innervated by the pudendal nerve (S2–S4) with additional sacral contributions. Blood supply comes from branches of the internal pudendal artery and related pelvic vessels.

Clinical significance: Weakness or dysfunction of the pubococcígeos, as part of pelvic floor dysfunction, can cause urinary or fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, especially after childbirth, aging, or pelvic surgery. Pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction may occur.

Management: Pelvic floor exercises, particularly Kegels, aim to strengthen these muscles. Correct technique involves contracting the pelvic floor without bearing down, holding for several seconds, and repeating. In some cases, physical therapy or biofeedback is recommended; surgery is rarely indicated.

In males: The pubococcígeos support pelvic organs and contribute to urinary control; dysfunction may follow prostatitis or prostate surgery.

See also: pelvic floor, levator ani, Kegel exercises.