[Pathophysiology of pelvic floor insufficiency].

The muscles of the pelvic floor form a complexly built sustaining structure, which bears the whole weight of the visceral column. The pelvic floor is reinforced by a supporting framework of fasciae. Some of the pelvic muscles are important sphincteric elements for occlusion of the anal canal, the vagina and the urethra. Any weakening of the ingenious construction of the pelvic diaphragm consequently reduces its functions of support or continence. Possible effects are visceral prolapse and incontinence.