Telecare intervention for pelvic floor muscle training in postpartum women: a pilot study

Background
Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction is associated with reduced quality of life, diminished self-esteem, and feelings of unattractiveness. However, early prophylaxis can decrease the risk of various related disorders.

Aims
This pilot study aimed to assess whether an innovative telecare-based training program could improve the strength of pelvic floor muscles (PFM) in postpartum women at risk for pelvic floor disorders.

Material and methods
Twelve participants who were within two years postpartum underwent a home-based pelvic floor muscle training program. Each participant performed PFM exercises three to five times per week for 5–10 minutes per session, depending on her individualized training plan. The intervention lasted for 90 days. Changes in maximum PFM contraction strength were analyzed using 100% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) values.

Results
The analysis revealed that increased muscle contraction strength contributed to enhanced PFM efficiency. The mean 100% MVC value of the pelvic floor muscles was 23.46 ± 9.59 mmHg before training and 35.34 ± 13.61 mmHg after 90 days of training (p = 0.036).

Conclusions
The findings of this pilot study suggest that a telecare intervention using an endovaginal device can improve pelvic floor muscle strength, potentially aiding in the prevention of pelvic floor disorders associated with pregnancy.