Abstract

Background: Urinary incontinence is a common symptom observed in modern times, which may affect 7-37% of women aged 20-39 and 9-39% after the age of 60. Pregnancy and natural delivery are important risk factors increasing the likelihood of incontinence. Conservative intervention such as pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is superior in preventing and treating urinary incontinence.

Purpose: In the current systematic review we evaluated 10 randomized control study that present the impact of pelvic floor muscle training on the occurrence and intensity of urine leakage in women in four different periods: during pregnancy, until 8 weeks postpartum, up to three to 12 months, and up to 6-8 years after child birth. In addition, we presented the best available evidence for the efficacy and effectiveness of antenatal pelvic floor muscle training in preventing and treating the urinary incontinence rather than non-intervention.

Data source: PubMed, Cochrane library, BMJ Group, BioMed Central, Wiley online library.

Study selection: 10 randomized, control trials (RCTs) published in English from 2001-2016.

Data extraction: Incontinence due to other causes other than childbirth.

Data synthesis: The study focus on pelvic floor exercise versus non-intervention for the antenatal women, incontinence must be as a result of childbirth, and randomized control study.

Limitation of the study: The reviewed studies are limited to 10 randomized control trials.

Conclusion: There is significant evidence that pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is superior in preventing and treating urinary incontinence as compared to non-intervention.

Keywords: Antenatal pelvic floor exercise; Non-intervention; Urinary incontinence; Pelvic floor exercise training