Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
03:49
Anogenital Distance and Perineal Measurements of the Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Quantification System
Published on: September 20, 2018
[Pregnancy, delivery and pelvic floor disorders]
Pauliina Aukee1, Kati Tihtonen
1Keski-Suomen keskussairaala, synnytysten ja naistentautien yksikkö sekä lantionpohjan tutkimus- ja hoitoyksikkö, Jyväskylä.
Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja
|December 4, 2010
Summary
Vaginal delivery can cause pelvic floor dysfunction, but long-term effects may also involve age and genetics. Pelvic floor training might help prevent incontinence, though long-term data is limited.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pelvic Floor Disorders
- Female Reproductive Health
Context:
- Pregnancy and vaginal delivery significantly impact pelvic floor structures.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction is more prevalent after vaginal delivery than Cesarean section, especially in the short term.
- Long-term outcomes are less clear, suggesting multifactorial causes for pelvic floor dysfunction.
Purpose:
- To explore the effects of pregnancy and delivery on pelvic floor health.
- To discuss the contributing factors to pelvic floor dysfunction beyond delivery mode.
- To evaluate the potential of preventive strategies like pelvic floor muscle training.
Summary:
- Vaginal delivery can lead to pelvic floor trauma through increased intra-abdominal pressure, direct injury, and nerve damage.
- Factors such as age, estrogen levels, genetics, and overweight play a role in pelvic floor dysfunction pathophysiology.
- While obstetric management can prevent some birth injuries and pelvic floor training may reduce incontinence, long-term efficacy data is scarce.
Impact:
- Highlights the complex etiology of pelvic floor dysfunction, extending beyond delivery method.
- Emphasizes the need for further research into long-term effects of interventions and contributing factors.
- Informs clinical practice regarding preventive measures and patient counseling for pelvic floor health.
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