A cross-sectional investigation on the function of the female pelvic floor in the Sichuan Province, China.

Abstract

Background: Pelvic floor dysfunction significantly impacts patients' quality of life, and its incidence is steadily increasing over time. However, there remains a lack of sufficient awareness regarding this condition. This study aims to enhance public awareness through relevant surveys.

Methods: A total of 368 married women were randomly recruited from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Leshan People's Hospital from May 2018 to December 2023 for pelvic floor function screening. Of these, 122 married women did not have children (group A), 122 married women had children before menopause (group B), and 124 women were postmenopausal (group C). Through questionnaire survey, Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification score, and myoelectric assessment, the data were collected and statistically analyzed.

Results: The electrophysiological indicators of the three groups revealed statistically significant differences in the prevalence of manual muscle strength ≥ grade 3, anal lift muscle strength ≥ grade 3, Class I muscle fatigue, and maximum systolic pressure among the groups (p < 0.05). However, there was no statistically significant difference observed in Class II muscle fatigue. (p ≥ 0.05). The results of pelvic organ prolapse in the three groups showed statistically significant differences (p < 0.05). When comparing the Aa value and C value between groups, there were statistically significant differences between group A and group B as well as between group A and group C (p < 0.05). However, the differences between group B and group C were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). In terms of the D value comparison, there was a statistically significant difference between group A and group C (p < 0.05), but no significance was found when comparing group A with group B or when comparing group B with group C (p > 0.05). Additionally, there were statistically significant variations observed in Ap values among the three groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Before the onset of symptoms associated with pelvic floor dysfunction, there are changes in the position of pelvic organs and electrophysiological indicators of the pelvic floor. Therefore, early screening, detection, and treatment are crucial for preventing the development of pelvic floor dysfunction diseases.