Study of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in First-Time Pregnant Women to Prevent Pelvic Floor Disorders and Improve Birth Outcomes

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to study pelvic floor muscle training PFMT during pregnancy in first-time pregnant women. It evaluates the effects of a home-based PFMT program on pelvic floor disorders, sexual function, and obstetric outcomes. The study is a randomized controlled trial that compares an electronic, motivation-informed PFMT program to standard care, focusing on exercise engagement and adherence during pregnancy and continuing after birth. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups the PFMT group receives access to a free, easily accessible training program via a Danish website or app, which includes muscle training and relaxation exercises recommended three to four times a week during pregnancy and postpartum. The control group receives standard care with routine recommendations but no structured guidance. The study includes follow-ups during each trimester of pregnancy and at six weeks, three months, and six months postpartum, with additional longer-term follow-up. Women in the study will complete questionnaires on pelvic floor disorders, motivation, and training acceptance at baseline and follow-ups, along with telephone interviews during pregnancy and postpartum. Medical data on obstetric outcomes will be collected from electronic patient records. The main outcome measured is the incidence of urinary incontinence at three months postpartum, with many secondary outcomes including urinary and anal incontinence, sexual dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, and details of delivery. Weekly questionnaires on training adherence will be collected from baseline to six months postpartum.

Pelvic Floor Muscle Training During Pregnancy