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Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics

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01-03-2012 | General Gynecology

Effects of multidimensional pelvic floor muscle training in healthy young women

Authors: Helena Talasz, Elisabeth Kalchschmid, Markus Kofler, Monika Lechleitner

Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics | Issue 3/2012

Abstract

Purpose

Cross-sectional and interventional study to assess pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function in healthy young nulliparous women and to determine the effects of a 3-month PFM training program with emphasis on co-contraction of PFM and anterolateral abdominal muscles and on correctly performed coughing patterns.

Methods

PFM function was assessed by digital vaginal palpation in 40 volunteers and graded according to the 6-point Oxford grading scale. The PFM training program was comprised theoretical instruction, as well as verbal feedback during hands-on instruction and repeated training sessions focussing on strengthening PFM and anterolateral abdominal muscle co-contraction during forced expiration and coughing.

Results

At baseline, 30 women (75%) were able to perform normal PFM contractions at rest (Oxford scale score ≥3); only 4 of them (10%) presented additional involuntary PFM contractions before and during coughing. The remaining 10 women (25%) were unable to perform voluntary or involuntary PFM contractions. Mean Oxford scale score in the whole group was 3.3 ± 1.7. After completing the PFM training program, 29 women (72.5%) performed cough-related PFM contractions and group mean Oxford scale score increased significantly to 4.2 ± 1.0.

Conclusions

The study shows that PFM dysfunction may be detected even in healthy young women. Multidimensional training, however, may significantly improve PFM function.

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Title: Effects of multidimensional pelvic floor muscle training in healthy young women
Authors: Helena Talasz
Elisabeth Kalchschmid
Markus Kofler
Monika Lechleitner
Publication date: 01-03-2012
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics / Issue 3/2012
Print ISSN: 0932-0067
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0711
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-011-2039-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Effects of multidimensional pelvic floor muscle training in healthy young women

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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