Title: Survey on knowledge about pelvic floor muscles and pelvic floor muscle exercises in primiparous pregnant women
Authors: Shrutika Pramod Sawant, Dr Anuradha Sutar
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i4.101
Abstract
Introduction: The pelvic floor muscles are a well-defined muscular structure that supports pelvic organs. Pelvic floor dysfunctions include urinary incontinence, prolapse, and sexual problems. The current study evaluated knowledge about pelvic floor muscles and awareness about pelvic floor exercises in primiparous pregnant women above 18 years of age.
Subjects and Methods: In this cross-sectional survey, a validated, 36 item questionnaire was used. Women were interviewed for the questions in the questionnaire. Questionnaire included questions regarding demography, pelvic floor muscles, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor exercises. Content validity and face validity was done.
Results: Results are calculated by taking average of all the questions. Knowledge of pelvic floor muscles was 48%, knowledge of pelvic floor exercises was 32%, knowledge about sexual dysfunction was 51%. Many of the women knew exact location and function of pelvic floor muscles.
Conclusion: There was significant lack of knowledge about pelvic floor muscles and training among primiparous women. Most of the women thought they are not sufficiently informed this can be a way to reduce dysfunction.
Keywords: Pelvic floor, urinary incontinence, pelvic floor exercises.
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