Examination of awareness, knowledge and beliefs on pelvic floor and pelvic floor muscle training in pregnant women

The aim of this study was to determine the awareness, knowledge and beliefs of pregnant women on pelvic floor and pelvic floor muscle training. 250 volunteer women with gestational week ranging between 5 and 40 were included in this study. After the physical and socio-demographic characteristics of the pregnant women were recorded, they were asked to complete the questionnaire assessing their awareness, knowledge and beliefs on pelvic floor and pelvic floor muscle training. Health related quality of life levels were determined by Short Form-36 and physical activity levels were determined by the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire. Pregnants had insufficient level of knowledge and awareness about pelvic floor muscle anatomy and function, pelvic floor muscle training, pelvic floor dysfunctions and treatment methods; some, had maladaptive beliefs about pelvic floor and pelvic floor dysfunctions. It was determined that most of the pregnant women did not attend the pregnant school and those with higher education level had higher participation in the pregnant school (p=0,003). As a result, pregnants had insufficient awareness and knowledge levels, maladaptive beliefs on pelvic floor muscles and training. It is essential for pregnant women to know potential problems, preventive and therapeutic methods in this process which they are at risk for various pelvic floor dysfunctions. Therefore, it can be recommended that pregnant women should be routinely informed about the pelvic floor by health professionals and encourage to participate in pelvic floor muscle training.