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International Urogynecology Journal

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01-06-2011 | Original Article

Can the Paula method facilitate co-contraction of the pelvic floor muscles? A 4D ultrasound study

Authors: Kari Bø, Gunvor Hilde, Jette Stær-Jensen, Ingeborg Hoff Brækken

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 6/2011

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The aim was to compare constriction of the levator hiatus (LH) and reduction of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) length during instruction of the Paula method (contraction of ring musculature of the mouth) and contraction of the PFM.

Methods

Seventeen pregnant or postpartum women, mean age 28.6 (range 20–35) participated. A Voluson E8 ultrasound machine with 4–8 MHz curved array 3D/4D transducer (RAB 4-7l/obstetric) was used. Measurements were performed in the axial plane of minimal hiatal dimensions. Muscle length was calculated as circumference of the LH minus the suprapubic arch. Differences between groups were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed rank test. Significance level was set to 0.05.

Results

There was a significant reduction of the LH area (p < 0.001) and muscle length (p < 0.001) during PFM contraction, but not during contraction according to the Paula method, p = 0.51 and p = 0.31, respectively.

Conclusions

The Paula method did not facilitate PFM contraction.

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Title: Can the Paula method facilitate co-contraction of the pelvic floor muscles? A 4D ultrasound study
Authors: Kari Bø
Gunvor Hilde
Jette Stær-Jensen
Ingeborg Hoff Brækken
Publication date: 01-06-2011
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 6/2011
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-010-1317-8

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Can the Paula method facilitate co-contraction of the pelvic floor muscles? A 4D ultrasound study

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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