The pelvic floor consists of layers of muscles that stretch like a supportive hammock from the pubic bone (in front) to the end of the backbone.

If your pelvic floor muscles are weakened, you may find that you leak urine when you cough, sneeze or strain. This is quite common and you don't need to feel embarrassed.

Pelvic floor exercises can be effective at reducing leakage, but it's important to do the exercises properly. Learn more about pelvic floor exercises and other ways to relieve symptoms of incontinence here.

The Continence Foundation of Australia has produced these videos to help explain the function and role of the pelvic floor muscles:

Follow the links below to find related information on Australian websites.