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Explained in plain English

What is a 'pelvic floor'?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues at the base of the pelvis. It supports organs like the bladder and uterus, and plays a crucial role in childbirth. This study suggests that maintaining the integrity of the pelvic floor during birth was a key evolutionary pressure, shaping the pelvis more than the need for efficient walking.

Stories that explain this

Neanderthal pelvises suggest childbirth mattered more than walking for evolution

Related explainers

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