Prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction in recreational athletes: a cross‑sectional survey

Author(s): K. G. Campbell, M. E. Batt & A. Drummond - Pages: 19-28

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis. Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) affects many women, and participation in elite sport and high-impact exercise has been reported as a potential risk. However, few studies have investigated the effects of exercising at recreational levels on PFD. The authors’ aim was to investigate levels of PFD in women exercising at, or above, UK guidelines for health, and compare these with levels in non-exercisers.

Method. Data on levels of PFD and potential risk factors (i.e. age, hormonal status, body mass index, constipation, parity, forceps delivery and recreational exercise) were collected using a cross-sectional survey distributed via social media. The International Consultation Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ) – Urinary Incontinence Short Form was used to estimate the prevalence of urinary incontinence. Selected questions from the ICIQ – Vaginal Symptoms and Bowel Symptoms questionnaires were used to estimate the prevalence of anal incontinence (AI) and pelvic organ prolapse. Logistic regression analysis was used to compare exercisers and non-exercisers after adjusting for potential confounders.

Results. The authors recruited 1598 adult women (1141 exercisers and 457 non-exercisers). The majority were parous. A high prevalence of urinary incontinence (70%), AI (48%) and pelvic organ prolapse (18%) was reported. No significant association was found between recreational exercise and PFD despite adjustment for confounders, or further investigation regarding exercise involving impact, although some increased reporting of AI was seen in those exercising for over 10 h per week

Conclusion. High levels of PFD were reported, but no significant association was found between recreational exercise and symptoms. However, data suggest that women modify their exercise regimes as required. Few symptomatic women sought professional help.