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International Urogynecology Journal

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Open Access 16-08-2023 | Perineal Laceration | Original Article

Complications 8 weeks after an obstetric second-degree perineal laceration in relation to body mass index

Authors: Maria Otterheim, Linda Hjertberg, Sofia Pihl, Eva Uustal, Marie Blomberg

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

How body mass index (BMI) affects pelvic floor function after a second-degree perineal laceration is unknown. The hypothesis of this study is that pelvic floor dysfunction and complications after an obstetric second-degree perineal laceration are more common in women with a higher BMI 8 weeks postpartum.

Methods

This register-based cohort study includes 10,876 primiparous women with an obstetric second-degree perineal laceration between 2014 and 2021. Data were retrieved from the Swedish Perineal Laceration Registry. Outcomes in relation to maternal BMI were urinary incontinence (UI), anal incontinence (AI) and common complications attributable to the laceration. Uni- and multivariate logistic regressions were used for comparison between normal weight (BMI < 24.9, reference), overweight (25.0–29.9) and obese (≥ 30) women.

Results

Multivariate analyses showed an increased risk for UI in both overweight and obese women compared to normal-weight women 8 weeks after a second-degree perineal laceration with an adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of 1.21 (CI 1.02–1.44) and 1.27 (CI 1.13–1.58) respectively. Overweight and obese women had a decreased risk for AI (aOR 0.81, CI 0.68–0.96; aOR 0.72, CI 0.57–0.90 respectively) compared with normal-weight women. No significant differences were found in the univariate analyses over BMI strata concerning complications after perineal laceration.

Conclusions

Primiparous overweight and obese women report less AI and more UI than normal-weight women 8 weeks after a second-degree perineal laceration. No differences were found regarding complications. These findings are new and merit further study to find potential preventive factors and interventions after a second-degree perineal laceration.

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Title: Complications 8 weeks after an obstetric second-degree perineal laceration in relation to body mass index
Authors: Maria Otterheim
Linda Hjertberg
Sofia Pihl
Eva Uustal
Marie Blomberg
Publication date: 16-08-2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Keywords: Perineal Laceration
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary Incontinence
Overweight
Episiotomy
Published in: International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 1/2024
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-023-05609-y

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Complications 8 weeks after an obstetric second-degree perineal laceration in relation to body mass index

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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