Biofeedback and the electromyographic activity of pelvic floor muscles in pregnant women

The aim of this study was to evaluate pelvic floor functionality and sexual function in pregnant women. The study was characterized as a descriptive and transversal research. The population consisted of 19 pregnant women, living in Parnaíba/PI. The women's assessment instruments were the evaluation and identification form that contained sociodemographic data, clinical history, obstetric and urogynecological data; the NEW PERFECT scheme was used to assess the functionality of the pelvic floor muscles and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to assess sexual function. Mean age was 25.95 (± 3.54) years, mean pelvic floor muscle strength was 2.47 (± 1.28); resistance was 4.31 (± 2.99) seconds; the number of repetitions of the contractions maintained was 2.63 (± 1.6) times; and rapid contractions were 5.05 (± 2.87) contractions. Sexual function according to the FSFI totaled a score of 25.61. In this study, it was possible to infer important deficiencies and limitations regarding strength, coordination, control and activation of the pelvic floor muscles. As in the sexual function domain, the FSFI result indicates possible dysfunctions with an emphasis on the hypoactivity of sexual desire.

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Effects of antenatal pelvic floor preparation techniques on the perineal integrity: a randomized controlled trial protocol

International Journal of Clinical Trials ◽

10.18203/2349-3259.ijct20163958 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 3 (4) ◽

pp. 203 ◽

Cited By ~ 2

Author(s):

Priscila Godoy Januário Martins Alves ◽

Ricardo De Carvalho Cavalli ◽

Daiane Munhoz Mira Bertacini ◽

Patricia Driusso

Keyword(s):

Pelvic Floor ◽

Pregnant Women ◽

Controlled Trial ◽

Pelvic Floor Muscles ◽

Perineal Laceration ◽

Randomized Controlled ◽

Assessment And Treatment ◽

Gestational Week ◽

Perineal Massage ◽

Preparation Techniques

Background: The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of perineal massage, vaginal dilator and pelvic floor muscles training on the perineal integrity of primiparae women. Methods: Primigravidae women over 18 years old will be selected, from the 32th gestational week and wishing to have a vaginal delivery.Pregnant women will be randomly allocated from a sequence generated by a computer program into three groups: perineal massage, vaginal dilator and pelvic floor muscles training. The technique should be practiced from the 34th week of pregnancy until the beginning of labor. Randomization will be done by a researcher who was not involved with the recruitment, assessment and treatment of the participants. All participants will undergo a clinical and functional assessment of the pelvic floor before the beginning of the technique practice, as well as a reassessment of these items and an assessment of perineal integrity between 45 and 60 days after delivery for a blind physiotherapist regarding the interventional procedures. The evaluative procedures will be done by a ‘blinded’ physiotherapist in relation to the intervention procedures. The outcome will be determined by the perineal integrity by the presence or absence of perineal laceration as well as their characteristics observed immediately after delivery. Conclusions: The knowledge of the effects of antenatal pelvic floor preparation techniques on the perineal integrity and pelvic floor muscles function after delivery, will allow a better choice about which approach is the best to pregnant women to prevent perineal trauma.

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