Antenatal pelvic floor muscle exercises for the prevention and treatment of urinary incontinence in the antenatal and early postnatal period: a critical appraisal of the evidence

Author(s): H. E. Cooper & T. Cook - Pages: 5–13

Abstract

Pregnancy and childbirth are implicated in the development of urinary incontinence (UI). This literature review analyses the current evidence relating to the use of antenatal pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFMEs) to prevent and treat UI in women during pregnancy and the postnatal period. Relevant studies are considered and then discussed in relation to their similarities and differences. The evidence for the use of antenatal PFMEs to treat UI in pregnancy and the postnatal period is inconclusive, although a small body of literature supports the adoption of this approach as a preventative strategy. Conclusions are drawn from the current evidence and suggestions are made for clinical practice.

Keywords: antenatal, pelvic floor muscle exercises, postnatal, pregnancy, urinary incontinence.