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International Urogynecology Journal

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01-11-2011 | Original Article

The effect of pregnancy and childbirth on pelvic floor muscle function

Authors: Ksena Elenskaia, Ranee Thakar, Abdul Hameed Sultan, Inka Scheer, Andrew Beggs

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 11/2011

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The effect of pregnancy and mode of delivery on pelvic floor muscle function (PFMF) is unclear. Our aim was to prospectively evaluate the effect of pregnancy and childbirth on PFMF.

Methods

Subjective (Oxford scale) and objective (perineometry) assessments of PFMF were performed at 20 and 36 weeks gestation and at 14 weeks and 12 months after delivery. The resting pressure (RP) and the maximum squeeze pressure (MSP) were recorded.

Results

Four hundred three women (182 nulliparous and 221 multiparous) were recruited. Two hundred ninety-four (73%) delivered vaginally and 92 (23%) by caesarean section. RP and MSP improved significantly (p < 0.01) during pregnancy. After childbirth, a significant decrease in PFMF was demonstrated, which recovered completely by 1 year in majority of women.

Conclusions

There appears to be a physiological increment in PFMF during pregnancy. The pelvic floor weakens temporarily after childbirth but contractility appears to recover by 1 year irrespective of the mode of delivery.

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Title: The effect of pregnancy and childbirth on pelvic floor muscle function
Authors: Ksena Elenskaia
Ranee Thakar
Abdul Hameed Sultan
Inka Scheer
Andrew Beggs
Publication date: 01-11-2011
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 11/2011
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-011-1501-5

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

The effect of pregnancy and childbirth on pelvic floor muscle function

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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