Urethral Sphincter - Function

Function

In addition to the internal and external sphincters, in males the urethra extends to the end of the penis, where it opens up to the outside.

The levator ani, the voluntary muscle of the pelvic floor, can be used to control urination. In females this muscle may be damaged, most commonly by childbirth, leading to weakness of the sphincter mechanism and stress incontinence. Kegel exercises are a form of exercise intended to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. They are also known as Pelvic Floor Muscle Training.

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