EFFECTS OF DIFFERENT CONTRACTION METHODS ON PELVIC FLOOR MUSCLE FUNCTION IN ASYMPTOMATIC WOMEN

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate pelvic floor muscle function in different contractions methods at asymptomatic women with transabdominal ultrasonography. Methods: The study included 120 women who were asymptomatic according to the Global Pelvic Floor Bother Questionnaire and volunteered. After recording the physical and sociodemographic characteristics of women were given one-hour training by a physiotherapist. In this training, four different contraction methods (pelvic floor muscle contraction, Hollowing in maneuver, bracing maneuver, anal contraction) were taught theoretically and practically. Pelvic floor muscle function was evaluated under transabdominal ultrasonography. Measurements were repeated three times for each contraction, and the mean of three measurements was taken for analysis. The sequencing of the contractions was determined by random method. According to women's contraction method, pelvic floor muscle function was compared with the Analysis of Variance test in Repeated Measures. Results: According to women's contraction method, pelvic floor muscle function was significantly different (p=0.001). In light of these test results, the pelvic floor muscle function was the highest in the bracing maneuver. It was determined that this was followed by Hollowing in maneuver, pelvic floor muscle contraction and anal contraction, respectively. Conclusion: The women's pelvic floor muscle function was found to be highest in the bracing maneuver and the lowest in the anal contraction type. We consider that the exercises given with bracing maneuver during the pelvic floor muscle training is more effective in increasing the pelvic floor muscle function.