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Open Access 01-12-2009 | Original Article

Pelvic floor muscle function in a general female population in relation with age and parity and the relation between voluntary and involuntary contractions of the pelvic floor musculature

Authors: Marijke C. Ph. Slieker-ten Hove, Annelies L. Pool-Goudzwaard, Marinus J. C. Eijkemans, Regine P. M. Steegers-Theunissen, Curt W. Burger, Mark E. Vierhout

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 12/2009

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The objective of this study is to describe pelvic floor muscle function (PFMF) in relation to age and parity in a general female population and to test whether strength/endurance measurements represent all functions of the pelvic floor musculature.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed on 95% of the women aged 45–85 years from a small Dutch town. Validated questionnaires were used to obtain general information, and vaginal examination to test PFMF was performed on 649 women. Chi-square tests were used to analyse the relation between PFMF versus age and parity. Analysis of variance was used to compare muscle strength and endurance to the other PFMF items.

Results

Response rate to the questionnaire was 62.7% (1,869/2,979). PFM strength and endurance are not positively associated with the effective involuntary muscle contractions during coughing.

Conclusions

Voluntary muscle contractions decreased with age, but there was no relation with parity. Muscle strength and endurance measurements alone are not sensitive enough to determine PFMF.

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Title: Pelvic floor muscle function in a general female population in relation with age and parity and the relation between voluntary and involuntary contractions of the pelvic floor musculature
Authors: Marijke C. Ph. Slieker-ten Hove
Annelies L. Pool-Goudzwaard
Marinus J. C. Eijkemans
Regine P. M. Steegers-Theunissen
Curt W. Burger
Mark E. Vierhout
Publication date: 01-12-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 12/2009
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-009-0978-7

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Pelvic floor muscle function in a general female population in relation with age and parity and the relation between voluntary and involuntary contractions of the pelvic floor musculature

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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