Abstract
BackgroundChildbirth is a major risk factor for urinary incontinence (UI). As a result, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is commonly recommended during and after pregnancy to prevent the onset of UI. PFMT is often classed as a physical activity (PA) behaviour, hence PA guidelines for postnatal women encourage PFMT alongside aerobic activities. However, postnatal lifestyle interventions tend to overlook PFMT which can be detrimental to women’s health and future health risks, including urinary incontinence. This study aimed to explore perceptions and acceptability of a postnatal physical activity and PFMT intervention with postnatal women in Scotland.MethodsWe recruited women who had given birth within the last 5 years by displaying posters in health centres and community centres in Stirling and through Facebook. Data was gathered via online and face-to-face focus groups, that were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Analytic themes were initially organised under related concepts derived from the topic guide and thematic analysis conducted. Subsequent analysis was by the Framework technique.ResultsA total of seven online and face-to-face focus group discussions with 31 women identified there was a clear intention behaviour gap for engagement in PA, with both psychological and logistical barriers identified such as motivation and childcare. This was distinct from PFMT where there was a feeling of helplessness around not knowing how to perform a correct PFMT contraction subsequently resulting in women not adhering to PFMT guidance. Women felt there was no accessible PFMT advice available through the NHS. Some participants had received PFMT advice after childbirth and spoke of the Squeezee app being useful in adhering to a PFMT regimen but they did require additional teaching on how to do correct contractions. There was need for clarity and practical support for PFMT in the postnatal period with an approved intervention incorporating an accessible app being suggested by participants.ConclusionsWomen would like to be trained on postnatal PFMT but face barriers to accessing adequate information and education on how to do a PFMT contraction. An intervention combining PFMT training and an app would be the most useful for their needs and circumstances.
Highlights
Childbirth is a major risk factor for urinary incontinence (UI)
This paper presents the findings from an exploratory qualitative study with postnatal women in Scotland that aimed to explore perceptions and experience of postnatal PA and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and explore the acceptability of a postnatal physical activity and PFMT intervention
This study explored perceptions and experiences of postnatal physical activity and PFMT
Summary
Childbirth is a major risk factor for urinary incontinence (UI). As a result, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is commonly recommended during and after pregnancy to prevent the onset of UI. Postnatal lifestyle interventions tend to overlook PFMT which can be detrimental to women’s health and future health risks, including urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence (UI, defined as the involuntary leakage of urine) is a common problem among women, affecting between 25 and 45% internationally [1]. UI symptoms affect quality of life [6], sexual function, and prevent engagement with fitness and exercise activities [7, 8] and are associated with major depression [9], social isolation and psychological distress in older women [10]. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is the first line treatment for stress UI [11] and there is good evidence to show PFMT can cure or improve symptoms [12]. There is evidence PFMT interventions can improve knowledge and skills about PFMT and UI [13] and PFMT can prevent UI [7, 14] which suggests it should be a routine part of women’s exercise activities
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
