Functioning of women in the postpartum period: an International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-based consensus of physical therapists

Abstract

BackgroundPhysical therapists provide treatment for pain and other common complaints for women in the postpartum period, thereby contributing to the improvement of their functioning. However, before applying any interventions, physical therapists should assess their patients to identify the desired therapeutic goals. In this context, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) may be a useful tool for documenting functioning data and operationalizing collaborative goal setting. ObjectiveTo identify ICF categories and the respective domains that should be considered in the evaluation of women postpartum. MethodsA consensus-building, three-round e-mail survey was conducted using the Delphi method. The sample included Brazilian physical therapists with expertise in women’s health. Meaningful content was analyzed in accordance to the ICF linking rules. The kappa coefficient and content validity index (CVI) were calculated. ResultsThe panel consisted of 45 participants with a median age of 33 years and more than 10 years of experience in women’s health. A total of 1261 meaningful contents were identified from the responses in the first round. After consensus was achieved, a final list of 62 items was prepared, including 53 categories (11 were on structures; 15 on body functions; 12 on activities and participation; 15 on environmental factors) and nine personal factors (CVI=0.89). ConclusionFrom the perception of physical therapists, an ICF-based postpartum assessment to describe functioning and disability must comprise 53 ICF categories and nine personal factors.