Abstract
The pelvic floor is a complex system designed to support the pelvic organs. It relies upon the integration of muscular and connective tissue elements to do so effectively. Failure of this support apparatus leads to pelvic floor disorders (PFDs). Risk factors associated with PFDs have been well described, however the underlying pathogenesis remains obscure. A growing body of literature has indicated that a deeper understanding of the structure and function of these tissues, in particular, knowledge of their ultrastructure and biochemistry, will be necessary to make advances in the treatment and/or prevention of PFDs. Thus, the goals of this chapter are to (1) discuss the ultrastructural components of the pelvic floor musculature and connective tissue, (2) review the biochemical processes that modulate these tissues, and (3) describe what is known about the effect of pregnancy and parturition, and aging on these tissues and their component parts.
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