We hear more and more about the perineum, and yet many people would be unable to say where it is or what it’s for.

It’s a bit like the unsung hero of our body: invisible, silent, but present every time we laugh, sneeze, carry our groceries, or go to the bathroom.

And here’s the good news: understanding it is the first step toward taking care of it.

What exactly is the perineum?

The perineum (also known as the “pelvic floor”) is a group of muscles and tissues located at the base of the pelvis.

→ Imagine a hammock stretched between the front (the pubic bone) and the back (the tailbone): it is this structure that closes off the lower abdomen from below.

Contrary to popular belief, the perineum is not exclusive to women. Both men and women have one.

Its shape varies slightly depending on anatomy, particularly because it is traversed by different orifices (the urethra, the anus, and the vagina in women), but its supportive role remains the same for everyone.

What is this famous muscle hammock used for?

The perineum performs several essential functions, often without us even realizing it:

⇒ It supports the organs.

The bladder, intestines, uterus in women, and prostate in men: all rest in part on this muscular floor.

It is what keeps them in place despite gravity and abdominal pressure.

⇒ It ensures continence.

The perineum helps control the sphincters, the “valves” that hold in urine and stool.

• When it functions properly, you maintain control.
• When it weakens, leakage may occur.

⇒ It plays a role in sexuality.

A toned perineum contributes to sensations and pleasure in both women and men.

⇒ It supports breathing and posture.

The pelvic floor works in conjunction with the diaphragm and the deep abdominal muscles.

It is part of what is sometimes called the “abdominal core,” the system that stabilizes us in our daily lives.

Why can the pelvic floor weaken?

Like any muscle, the perineum can lose its tone.

Several factors can strain or weaken it over the course of a lifetime:

→ Pregnancy and childbirth, which place enormous strain on this area.
→ Aging, which is accompanied by natural muscle relaxation.
→ Certain high-impact sports (running, jumping) that exert repeated downward pressure.
→ Being overweight, chronic coughing, or constipation, which increase pressure on the pelvic floor.
→ In men, certain medical procedures, particularly those involving the prostate, can affect continence.

A weakened perineum can manifest as urinary leakage, a feeling of heaviness, or discomfort.

Nothing is irreversible: this is precisely where rehabilitation comes into play.

Muscles need to be maintained (and rehabilitated)

That’s the whole point: just as you strengthen your arms or legs, you can tone and rehabilitate your pelvic floor.

Pelvic floor rehabilitation helps you regain strength and control in this area, whether after childbirth, as you age, or simply as a preventive measure.

Good news: you don’t have to wait until you have a “problem” to take care of it.

Understanding your pelvic floor and taking care of it is a true health habit, just like exercising or getting a good night’s sleep.

To conclude…

The pelvic floor is a discreet yet vital muscle: it supports our organs, ensures our continence, plays a role in our intimate life, and provides stability in our daily lives.

Understanding it is the first step toward taking care of it throughout your life.

⇒ In an upcoming article, we’ll take a practical look at how to tell if your pelvic floor needs rehabilitation and what solutions are available.