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.