Association of Diastasis Recti Abdominis with Pelvic Floor Muscle Strenth and Urine Incontinence in Gynecological Population

Abstract

Purpose: Diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) denotes an anomalous separation of the rectus muscles throughout their longitudinal axis, devoid of fascial irregularities. The current study sought to determine the prevalence of DRA and its potential association with pelvic floor muscular strength and urinary incontinence in the gynaecological population of Faisalabad. This was a cross-sectional study.
 Materials and Methods: A Convenient sampling technique was used for collecting data. A sample of 100 females from government hospitals of Faisalabad was taken. Study was conducted in Faisalabad from February 2018 to May 2018. Inclusion criteria of the research was, immediate postpartum ladies, females aged 18 to menopausal age, and females who had normal vaginal birth. Manometric techniques were employed to quantify the strength of the pelvic floor muscles (PFMS), with outcomes represented in cmH2O. The incidence of urinary incontinence (UI) was ascertained by querying patients regarding any manifestations postpartum. The extent of diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) was gauged utilizing fingerbreadth assessments of the rectus abdominis muscles. This particular measurement spanned a distance of 4.5 cm both superior and inferior to the umbilicus, aligned with the linea alba.
 Findings: Results were analyzed through SPSS version 26. Diastasis recti abdominis was found to be present in 57% of the females. 7% of the women had very weak pelvic floor muscle, 38% had weak, 50% had moderate strength and 5% had good strength of pelvic floor muscles. Out of 100, urine incontinence was found in 59% females. There was no statistically significant correlation observed between diastasis recti abdominis muscle and either urinary incontinence or pelvic floor muscle strength, with a p-value exceeding 0.05.
 Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Incorporate routine DRAM screening for postpartum gynecological patients. Educate women about DRAM, its risk factors, and prevention strategies. Promote postpartum exercises and physical therapy to strengthen abdominal muscles and pelvic floor. Provide nutritional counseling to address obesity, a risk factor for DRAM. Implement a multidisciplinary approach involving gynecologists, physiotherapists, and nutritionists. Conduct additional research on the long-term consequences of DRAM and effective interventions. Conduct awareness campaigns targeting both healthcare providers and the public to increase DRAM awareness.