Pelvic floor muscle strength in primigravidae and non-pregnant nulliparous women: a comparative study

Abstract

Pelvic floor muscles in primigravidae are not as strong as those in nonpregnant nulliparous women.

Evaluation of pelvic floor muscle strength and its correlation with sexual function in primigravid and non‐pregnant women: A cross‐sectional study

“…Regarding the association between PFM strength and sexual function during pregnancy, the literature indicates that hormonal and physical changes that occur during that period may serve as key factors that can negatively affect these variables . Among the previously identified physical changes, distension of the abdominal wall muscles by the gravid uterus, the weight of the foetus on the pelvic floor, subluxation of the pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joints and biomechanical compensation due to anterior displacement of the center of gravity have been found to be especially important …”

“…Regarding the association between PFM strength and sexual function during pregnancy, the literature indicates that hormonal and physical changes that occur during that period may serve as key factors that can negatively affect these variables. 1,23 Among the previously identified physical changes, distension of the abdominal wall muscles by the gravid uterus, the weight of the foetus on the pelvic floor, subluxation of the pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joints and biomechanical compensation due to anterior displacement of the center of gravity have been found to be especially important. 1,4,6,24 In terms of hormonal changes, relaxin not only affects ligamentous laxity, which may explain the biomechanical changes described above, but also affects vaginal tissue by enlarging the circumference of the vaginal lumen and increasing epithelial cells, potentially leading to a reduction in sensitivity and contractile muscle capacity.…”

A Pilates exercise program with pelvic floor muscle contraction: Is it effective for pregnant women? A randomized controlled trial

“…Studies have shown that it it possible that pregnancy reduces PFM strength, which, together with hormonal changes, may result in pelvic floor dysfunction . Preventive strategies for such disorders involve PFM training during pregnancy .…”

“…Studies have shown that it it possible that pregnancy reduces PFM strength, which, together with hormonal changes, may result in pelvic floor dysfunction. 10,11 Preventive strategies for such disorders involve PFM training during pregnancy. 12 Therefore, it is possible that the Pilates method with voluntary PFM contraction is an approach to achieve two goals in the pregnancy period, maintain physical activity and perform PFM training.…”

Increasing Age Is a Risk Factor for Decreased Postpartum Pelvic Floor Strength

“…Proper PFM contraction is defined as the ability to properly contract the pelvic floor, meaning a squeeze and an inward movement of the pelvic floor. Pelvic floor strength (PFS) is defined as the maximum voluntary contraction, which happens when a person attempts to recruit as many fibers in a muscle as possible 9,13 . A weak pelvic floor is associated with urinary and fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction 9,13,14 .…”