A comparison between electromyographic biofeedback training and stabilization exercises on women with pelvic organ prolapse

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of stabilization exercises, electromyographic biofeedback training and pelvic floor muscle training on women with stage 1 and 2 pelvic organ prolapse.Totally on 55 women with pelvic organ prolapse whose average age was 43,23 years, pelvic floor muscles were evaluated with electromyography, and prolapse with pelvic organ prolapse quantification system, and the quality of life with prolapse quality of life questionnaire; afterwards, the subjects were divided into three groups; stabilization exercise group (n=19), electromyographic biofeedback group (n=17), pelvic floor muscle training group (n=19). Stabilization exercise group and electromyographic biofeedback group were given training for 8 weeks, 3 times a week. Pelvic floor muscle training group were given eight-week home exercises. Each group was assessed before training and after eight weeks.An increase was found in the pelvic muscle activation response of the 3 groups (p<0.05). When the groups were compared, it was observed that the greater increase was in the electromyographic biofeedback group (p<0.05). According to the before and after pelvic organ prolapse quantification system assessment, a difference was found in the values Aa, Ba and C in subjects of each group (p<0.05), and the TVL, Ap, Bp and D values of subjects in pelvic floor muscle training group and electromyographic biofeedback group (p<0.05); however, no difference was found among three groups (p>0.05). According to the prolapse quality of life questionnaire, a positive difference was found in the effect of prolapse sub parameter in each of the three groups, and in general health perception sub parameter in subjects of electromyographic biofeedback and stabilization exercise groups (p<0.05).It was concluded that the three training programs increased the pelvic floor muscle strength, provided a decline in prolapse stages, and they all could be used because of their distinctive advantages.