Effect of pelvic floor muscle training on urinary incontinence and sexual function in female stroke survivors

Background: Urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction are common conditions ignored in the rehabilitation of female stroke survivors. Objectives: To determine the effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training on urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction in female stroke survivors. Methodology: Twenty six patients with stress urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction were randomly assigned to the experimental and control group constituting 13 patients each. Participants were assessed pre and post intervention in both groups. The frequency of voiding was recorded using a voiding diary, the rate of fluid loss in form of incontinence was measured using a pad test; the pelvic floor muscle strength, static and dynamic endurance were assessed using vaginal palpation. The female sexual function index questionnaire was used to assess sexual dysfunction in participants. The experimental group received pelvic floor muscle training and conventional treatment in form of fluid management and decrease in bladder irritants. The control group received conventional treatment alone. Results: Results indicate significant (P< 0.05) difference in the frequency of voiding, weight of pad, pelvic floor muscle strength, dynamic endurance and sexual function domains between pre and post intervention in the experimental group. There was no significant relationship between duration post stroke, frequency of voiding, weight of pad, static endurance, dynamic endurance and sexual function domains. Conclusion and Recommendation: The use of pelvic floor muscle training is effective in the management of stress urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction in female stroke survivors and should be used in physiotherapy clinic as part of rehabilitation