Abstract
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.
Highlights
The pregnancy is an event considered biologically natural, it is a period of important emotional vulnerability in which ambivalent feelings are experienced, in addition, it involves the need for restructuring in different dimensions, seeking adjustments, whether biological or psychic that vary according to the gestational age and from pregnant to pregnant
The gestational period can be experienced in different ways, depending on the emotional and physiological adaptations suffered by pregnant women (Da Silva Lima, Carmo, Neto, & Cunha Pena, 2020)
The hormonal changes directly affect the pelvic floor muscles (PFM), in particular, caused by estrogen, progesterone and relaxin hormones (Martinez, Ferreira, & Castro, 2014); changes in the cardiovascular system, with an increase in the total blood volume and greater flow directed to the uterus and kidneys; changes in the integumentary system with changes in skin, hair and skin oils and musculoskeletal adaptations resulting from fetal and uterine growth
Summary
The pregnancy is an event considered biologically natural, it is a period of important emotional vulnerability in which ambivalent feelings are experienced, in addition, it involves the need for restructuring in different dimensions, seeking adjustments, whether biological or psychic that vary according to the gestational age and from pregnant to pregnant. The PF is a group of muscles, fascias and ligaments that are responsible for supporting the internal organs, especially the uterus, bladder, and rectum, and have a particular function during childbirth, and essential role in sexual function. The weakening of these muscles in the perineal area results in deficiencies of the gynecological system that interfere in sexual relations, generating discomfort and dissatisfaction, these are called female sexual dysfunctions, which can be classified mainly as: dysfunction of desire, excitement, and orgasm (Barreto, Mesquita, Junior, & Gameiro, 2018).
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