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International Urogynecology Journal

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01-05-2014 | Original Article

Pelvic floor muscle function in women with pelvic floor dysfunction

A retrospective chart review, 1992–2008

Authors: Sigrid Tibaek, Christian Dehlendorff

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 5/2014

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The objectives of this study were to investigate the level of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function in women with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) referred by gynaecologists and urologists for in-hospital pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), and to identity associated factors for a low level of PFM function.

Methods

Data of women with PFD referred to a PFMT programme were included in a retrospective chart review. Measurement of PFM function performed by digital vaginal palpation included: voluntary PFM contraction, PFM strength (Modified Oxford Grading Scale) and PFM static endurance.

Results

Data of 998 women, mean age 56 (SD 13) years, with PFD (urinary incontinence, n = 757, anal incontinence, n = 36, pelvic organ prolapse, n = 111, other PFD, n = 94) were analysed. In all, 690 women (70 %) were, at baseline, unable to perform correct voluntary PFM contraction, mean PFM strength was 1.5 (SD 1.0) points, mean PFM static endurance was 16.7 (SD 16.1) seconds. Age ≥ 65 years and year of referral > 2000 were significantly (p < 0.01) associated with the ability to perform correct PFM contraction. Likewise, year of referral was significantly associated with high PFM strength (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The majority of the women were unable to perform correct voluntary PFM contraction and almost all had low PFM strength. The most important factor associated with a low level of PFM function was age.

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Title: Pelvic floor muscle function in women with pelvic floor dysfunction
A retrospective chart review, 1992–2008
Authors: Sigrid Tibaek
Christian Dehlendorff
Publication date: 01-05-2014
Publisher: Springer London
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 5/2014
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-013-2277-6

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Pelvic floor muscle function in women with pelvic floor dysfunction

A retrospective chart review, 1992–2008

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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