Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function, 7th Edition

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 0073403717
ISBN 13: 978-0-07340-371-7

Chapter 10 - Section 10.3 - Muscles of the Trunk - Before You Go On - Page 339: 15

Answer

1. **Superficial Perineal Space**: - **Bulbospongiosus Muscle**: The bulbospongiosus muscle is a superficial muscle in the perineal region. Its function includes: - Male: It aids in the expulsion of semen during ejaculation by contracting rhythmically. - Female: It helps constrict the vaginal opening and aids in clitoral erection during sexual arousal. 2. **Urogenital Diaphragm**: - **External Urethral Sphincter Muscle**: This muscle is part of the urogenital diaphragm. Its function is to: - Control the voluntary opening and closing of the urethra. Contraction of the external urethral sphincter helps prevent the involuntary release of urine and allows for conscious control over urination. 3. **Pelvic Diaphragm**: - **Levator Ani Muscle**: The levator ani is a major muscle group in the pelvic diaphragm. Its functions include: - Providing support to the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, rectum, and uterus (in females). - Assisting in maintaining continence by helping control the opening and closing of the anal canal and urethra. - Playing a role in the process of childbirth by relaxing to allow for the passage of the baby's head through the birth canal. - Supporting the pelvic floor and helping to maintain proper pelvic posture and stability. These muscles and their functions are crucial for various aspects of urogenital and pelvic health, as well as for sexual function and control of bodily waste elimination.

Work Step by Step

1. **Superficial Perineal Space**: - **Bulbospongiosus Muscle**: The bulbospongiosus muscle is a superficial muscle in the perineal region. Its function includes: - Male: It aids in the expulsion of semen during ejaculation by contracting rhythmically. - Female: It helps constrict the vaginal opening and aids in clitoral erection during sexual arousal. 2. **Urogenital Diaphragm**: - **External Urethral Sphincter Muscle**: This muscle is part of the urogenital diaphragm. Its function is to: - Control the voluntary opening and closing of the urethra. Contraction of the external urethral sphincter helps prevent the involuntary release of urine and allows for conscious control over urination. 3. **Pelvic Diaphragm**: - **Levator Ani Muscle**: The levator ani is a major muscle group in the pelvic diaphragm. Its functions include: - Providing support to the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, rectum, and uterus (in females). - Assisting in maintaining continence by helping control the opening and closing of the anal canal and urethra. - Playing a role in the process of childbirth by relaxing to allow for the passage of the baby's head through the birth canal. - Supporting the pelvic floor and helping to maintain proper pelvic posture and stability. These muscles and their functions are crucial for various aspects of urogenital and pelvic health, as well as for sexual function and control of bodily waste elimination.
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