Effects of pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy

Clinics (Sao Paulo). 2007 Aug;62(4):439-46. doi: 10.1590/s1807-59322007000400011.

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of pelvic floor muscle training in 46 nulliparous pregnant women.

Methods: The women were divided into 2 groups: an exercise group and a control group. Functional evaluation of the pelvic floor muscle was performed by digital vaginal palpation using the strength scale described by Ortiz and by a perineometer (with and without biofeedback).

Results: The functional evaluation of the pelvic floor muscles showed a significant increase in pelvic floor muscle strength during pregnancy in both groups (P < .001). However, the magnitude of the change was greater in the exercise group than in the control group (47.4% vs. 17.3%, P < .001). The study also showed a significant positive correlation (Spearman's test, r = 0.643; P < .001) between perineometry and digital assessment in the strength of pelvic floor muscles.

Conclusions: Pelvic floor muscle training resulted in a significant increase in pelvic floor muscle pressure and strength during pregnancy. A significant positive correlation between functional evaluation of the pelvic floor muscle and perineometry was observed during pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength / physiology*
  • Pelvic Floor / physiology*
  • Perineum / physiology*
  • Pregnancy*