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International Urogynecology Journal

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01-07-2012 | Original Article

The association between pelvic girdle pain and pelvic floor muscle function in pregnancy

Authors: Colleen M. Fitzgerald, Trudy Mallinson

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 7/2012

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The aim of this study is to determine pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function in second trimester women with and without pelvic girdle pain (PGP).

Methods

Fifty-five pregnant women with and without PGP were recruited in the second trimester who met inclusion for self-reported pain. Vaginal examination was performed assessing superficial and deep PFM tenderness, contract/relax patterns, and muscle strength.

Results

Fifty-one patients (26 with PGP and 25 without) were included in the final analyses. Significantly more patients in the PGP group had bilateral levator ani and obturator internus tenderness compared with the no pain group (Fisher's exact test (FET) P < 0.001). No other significant group differences were found.

Conclusion

There is an association between PGP and deep but not superficial PFM tenderness in pregnancy. Lack of accompanying PFM dysfunction in PGP during pregnancy may reflect pain duration.

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Title: The association between pelvic girdle pain and pelvic floor muscle function in pregnancy
Authors: Colleen M. Fitzgerald
Trudy Mallinson
Publication date: 01-07-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 7/2012
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-011-1658-y

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The association between pelvic girdle pain and pelvic floor muscle function in pregnancy

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