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01-03-2019 | Original Article

Risk factors for anatomic pelvic organ prolapse at 6 weeks postpartum: a prospective observational study

Authors: Cathrine Reimers, Franziska Siafarikas, Jette Stær-Jensen, Milada Cvancarova Småstuen, Kari Bø, Marie Ellström Engh

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 3/2019

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The objective was to identify risk factors for postpartum anatomic pelvic organ prolapse (aPOP) by comparing women with and without aPOP at 6 weeks postpartum with regard to pelvic floor measurements antepartum and obstetrical characteristics.

Methods

We carried out a prospective observational cohort study including nulliparous pregnant women in a Norwegian university hospital. Participants underwent clinical examinations, including pelvic organ prolapse quantification system (POP-Q) and transperineal ultrasound at gestational week 21 and at 6 weeks postpartum. Background and obstetrical information was obtained from an electronic questionnaire and from the patient’s electronic medical file respectively. Associations were estimated using logistic regression analyses. The dependent variable was aPOP, defined as POP-Q stage ≥2 at 6 weeks postpartum. Independent variables were mid-pregnancy measurements of selected POP-Q variables and levator hiatus area (LHarea), delivery route, and the presence of major levator ani muscle (LAM) injuries at 6 weeks postpartum.

Results

A larger LHarea, a more distensible LAM, a longer distance from the meatus urethra to the anus (Gh + Pb) and a more caudal position of the anterior vaginal wall (Ba) at mid-pregnancy were risk factors for aPOP at 6 weeks postpartum, whereas delivery route and the presence of major LAM injuries were not.

Conclusion

Prelabor differences in the pelvic floor rather than obstetrical events were risk factors for aPOP at 6 weeks postpartum.

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Title: Risk factors for anatomic pelvic organ prolapse at 6 weeks postpartum: a prospective observational study
Authors: Cathrine Reimers
Franziska Siafarikas
Jette Stær-Jensen
Milada Cvancarova Småstuen
Kari Bø
Marie Ellström Engh
Publication date: 01-03-2019
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 3/2019
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-018-3650-2

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Risk factors for anatomic pelvic organ prolapse at 6 weeks postpartum: a prospective observational study

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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