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Updated: Jul 28, 2026
03:49
Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System
Published on: September 20, 2018
The urine stream interruption test and pelvic muscle function in the puerperium
A Sartore1, R Pregazzi, P Bortoli
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Trieste, I.R.C.C.S. Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy. sartore@burlo.trieste.it
Summary
The uroflowmetric urine stream interruption test (UST) effectively evaluates postpartum pelvic floor function. This non-invasive test provides objective data and is useful for routine clinical assessment and rehabilitation outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Urogynecology
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
- Postpartum Care
Background:
- Pelvic floor muscle dysfunction is common after vaginal delivery.
- Objective assessment of pelvic floor function is crucial for effective management.
- Existing methods like digital testing and manometry have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the role of the uroflowmetric urine stream interruption test (UST) in assessing postpartum pelvic floor muscle function.
- To compare the effectiveness of UST with digital testing and vaginal manometry.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 492 women were assessed 2 months postpartum.
- Participants underwent digital testing, vaginal manometry, and the UST.
- Statistical analysis (Student's t-test, Fisher's exact test) compared continent and incontinent groups.
Main Results:
- While digital test and manometry showed differences, only UST values were statistically significant (P=0.001).
- The UST demonstrated significant differences in pelvic floor function between continent and incontinent women.
- Incontinent women undergoing rehabilitation showed significant improvement in test results post-treatment.
Conclusions:
- The UST is a low-cost, non-invasive method for objective assessment of postpartum pelvic floor function.
- UST is valuable for routine clinical use and as an outcome measure for rehabilitation interventions.
- This test aids in identifying and monitoring pelvic floor recovery after vaginal delivery.
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