Pelvic Diaphragm

Gross Anatomy - Pelvic Diaphragm

Pelvic Diaphragm

• Forms the pelvic floor and supports all of the pelvic viscera.
• Is formed by the levator ani and coccygeus muscles and their fascial coverings.
• Lies posterior and deep to the urogenital diaphragm and medial and deep to the ischiorectal fossa.
• On contraction, raises the entire pelvic floor.
• Flexes the anorectal canal during defecation and helps the voluntary control of micturition.
• Helps direct the fetal head toward the birth canal at parturition.

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