Pelvic floor muscle training in the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis

Evaluate the role of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on the treatment of lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

In this randomized controlled trial, twenty seven female patients with a diagnosis of MS and LUTD complaints were randomized, in two groups: Treatment group (GI) (N = 13) and Sham group (GII) (N = 14). Evaluation included urodynamic study, 24-hr Pad testing, three day voiding diary and pelvic floor evaluation according to PERFECT scheme. Intervention was performed twice a week for 12 weeks in both groups. GI intervention consisted of PFMT with assistance of a vaginal perineometer. GII received a sham treatment consisted on the introduction of a perineometer inside the vagina with no contraction required.

At the end of the treatment GI was complaining less about storage and voiding symptoms than GII. Furthermore, differences found between groups were: reduction of pad weight (P = 0.00) (Mean: 87,51 grams initial and 6,03 grams final in GI. 69,46 grams initial and 75,88 grams final in GII), number of pads (P = 0.01) (Mean: 3,61 initial and 2,15 final in GI. 3,42 initial and 3,28 final in GII) and nocturia events (P < 0.00) (Mean: 2,38 initial and 0,46 final in GI. 2,55 initial and 2,47 final in GII) and improvements of muscle power (P = 0.00), endurance (P < 0.00), resistance (P < 0.00) and fast contractions (P < 0.00), domains of PERFECT scheme.

PFMT is an effective approach to treat LUTD in female with MS.