Peanut Ball Utilization Protocols in Women During Labour and Delivery: An Integrative Review.

OBJECTIVE: This review aimed to assess the evidence available in the literature about the protocols for using peanut ball (PB) in women during labour and delivery. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search was carried out by 2 independent researchers in the PubMed/MedLine, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane and Scopus databases, and the reference lists were scanned for additional articles. STUDY SELECTION: Search terms employed were selected from MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) and DeCS (Descriptors in Health Sciences) and combined in each database: "Pregnant Women" AND "Peanut Ball", "Peanut Ball" AND "Labor, Obstetric", as well as "Peanut Ball" AND "Parturition". There were no limits regarding the publication period or language. Studies that answered the following question were included: What are the protocols for the use of the PB in women during labour and childbirth described in the literature? Secondary studies were excluded. Disagreements were resolved by a third researcher. DATA EXTRACTION: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement guided this review. The authors prepared a standardized data extraction sheet to extract data and used the Mendeley software to organize the analyzed studies. DATA SYNTHESIS: Ten studies made up the final sample of this review. Eight articles presented the protocol for using the PB: 2 studies included it after epidural analgesia and removed it at complete cervical dilation and effacement; 4 addressed the frequency of position changes during labour; and 3 reported data on maternal positions that were adopted. Five studies showed lower rates of cesarean delivery, and 2 reported that PB reduces the length of labour. Only 1 article associated the use of PB with the reduction of instrumental deliveries and perineal lacerations. One study showed a positive evaluation of parturients regarding the use of PB. CONCLUSION: PB was associated with a reduction in cesarean and instrumental deliveries, and the length of labour. Despite its benefits, there is no standardized protocol for the use of PB, preventing it from predicting outcomes with its use. PROSPERO ID: CRD42023392238.

The Effects of Hysterectomy on Urinary and Sexual Functions of Women with Cervical Cancer: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aims at describing the prevalence of urinary and sexual symptoms among women who underwent a hysterectomy for cervical cancer. METHODS: A systematic search in six electronic databases was performed, in September 2019, by two researchers. The text search was limited to the investigation of prevalence or occurrence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and sexual dysfunctions in women who underwent a hysterectomy for cervical cancer. For search strategies, specific combinations of terms were used. RESULTS: A total of 8 studies, published between 2010 and 2018, were included in the sample. The average age of the participants ranged from 40 to 56 years, and the dysfunctions predominantly investigated in the articles were urinary symptoms (n = 8). The rates of urinary incontinence due to radical abdominal hysterectomy ranged from 7 to 31%. The same dysfunction related to laparoscopic radical hysterectomy varied from 25 to 35% and to laparoscopic nerve sparing radical hysterectomy varied from 25 to 47%. Nocturia ranged from 13%, before treatment, to 30%, after radical hysterectomy. The prevalence rates of dyspareunia related to laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and laparoscopic nerve sparing radical hysterectomy ranged from 5 to 16% and 7 to 19% respectively. The difficulty in having orgasm was related to laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (10 to 14%) and laparoscopic nerve sparing radical hysterectomy (9 to 19%). CONCLUSION: Urinary and sexual dysfunctions after radical hysterectomy to treat cervical cancer are frequent events. The main reported disorders were urinary incontinence and dyspareunia.

OBJETIVO: Essa revisão sistemática visa descrever a prevalência de sintomas urinários e sexuais entre mulheres submetidas à histerectomia por câncer cervical. MéTODOS: Uma pesquisa sistemática foi realizada em seis bases de dados eletrônicas, em setembro de 2019, por dois pesquisadores. A busca foi limitada à investigação da prevalência e ocorrência de sintomas do trato urinário baixo e disfunções sexuais em mulheres após histerectomia por câncer cervical. Como estratégia de busca foi utilizada uma combinação específica de termos apenas em inglês. RESULTADOS: Um total de 8 estudos, publicados entre 2010 e 2018, foram incluídos na amostra. A idade média dos participantes foi de 40 a 56 anos, e as principais disfunções investigadas pelos artigos foram sintomas urinários (n = 8). Na literatura analisada, as taxas de incontinência urinária ligadas à histerectomia abdominal radical variaram de 7 a 31%. A mesma disfunção, para histerectomia radical laparoscópica, variou de 25 a 35%, e de 25 a 47% para histerectomia radical laparoscópica poupadora de nervo. A taxa de noctúria variou de 13%, antes do tratamento, a 30%, após histerectomia radical. A prevalência de dispareunia associada à histerectomia radical laparoscópica foi de 5 a 16%. Já a taxa de dispareunia relatada pós-histerectomia radical laparoscópica poupadora situou-se entre 7 e 19%. A dificuldade de alcançar o orgasmo foi relatada após histerectomia radical laparoscópica, variando de 10 a 14%, e também na histerectomia radical laparoscópica poupadora de nervo, variando de 9 a 19%. CONCLUSãO: Disfunções urinárias e sexuais após histerectomia para tratamento do câncer cervical são eventos frequentes. As principais desordens relatadas foram incontinência urinária e dispareunia.

The Effects of Hysterectomy on Urinary and Sexual Functions of Women with Cervical Cancer: A Systematic Review / Os efeitos da histerectomia nas funções urinárias e sexuais de mulheres com câncer cervical: Uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective This systematic review aims at describing the prevalence of urinary and sexual symptoms among women who underwent a hysterectomy for cervical cancer. Methods A systematic search in six electronic databases was performed, in September 2019, by two researchers. The text search was limited to the investigation of prevalence or occurrence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and sexual dysfunctions in women who underwent a hysterectomy for cervical cancer. For search strategies, specific combinations of terms were used. Results A total of 8 studies, published between 2010 and 2018, were included in the sample. The average age of the participants ranged from 40 to 56 years, and the dysfunctions predominantly investigated in the articles were urinary symptoms (n= 8). The rates of urinary incontinence due to radical abdominal hysterectomy ranged from 7 to 31%. The same dysfunction related to laparoscopic radical hysterectomy varied from 25 to 35% and to laparoscopic nerve sparing radical hysterectomy varied from 25 to 47%. Nocturia ranged from 13%, before treatment, to 30%, after radical hysterectomy. The prevalence rates of dyspareunia related to laparoscopic radical hysterectomy and laparoscopic nerve sparing radical hysterectomy ranged from 5 to 16% and 7 to 19% respectively. The difficulty in having orgasm was related to laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (10 to 14%) and laparoscopic nerve sparing radical hysterectomy (9 to 19%). Conclusion Urinary and sexual dysfunctions after radical hysterectomy to treat cervical cancer are frequent events. The main reported disorders were urinary incontinence and dyspareunia.

Resumo Objetivo Essa revisão sistemática visa descrever a prevalência de sintomas urinários e sexuais entre mulheres submetidas à histerectomia por câncer cervical. Métodos Uma pesquisa sistemática foi realizada em seis bases de dados eletrônicas, em setembro de 2019, por dois pesquisadores. A busca foi limitada à investigação da prevalência e ocorrência de sintomas do trato urinário baixo e disfunções sexuais em mulheres após histerectomia por câncer cervical. Como estratégia de busca foi utilizada uma combinação específica de termos apenas em inglês. Resultados Um total de 8 estudos, publicados entre 2010 e 2018, foram incluídos na amostra. A idade média dos participantes foi de 40 a 56 anos, e as principais disfunções investigadas pelos artigos foram sintomas urinários (n= 8). Na literatura analisada, as taxas de incontinência urinária ligadas à histerectomia abdominal radical variaram de 7 a 31%. A mesma disfunção, para histerectomia radical laparoscópica, variou de 25 a 35%, e de 25 a 47% para histerectomia radical laparoscópica poupadora de nervo. A taxa de noctúria variou de 13%, antes do tratamento, a 30%, após histerectomia radical. A prevalência de dispareunia associada à histerectomia radical laparoscópica foi de 5 a 16%. Já a taxa de dispareunia relatada pós-histerectomia radical laparoscópica poupadora situou-se entre 7 e 19%. A dificuldade de alcançar o orgasmo foi relatada após histerectomia radical laparoscópica, variando de 10 a 14%, e também na histerectomia radical laparoscópica poupadora de nervo, variando de 9 a 19%. Conclusão Disfunções urinárias e sexuais após histerectomia para tratamento do câncer cervical são eventos frequentes. As principais desordens relatadas foram incontinência urinária e dispareunia.

Scale of pregnant women's assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice related to urinary incontinence.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Urinary incontinence (UI) is prevalent during pregnancy and negatively affects quality of life. Despite this, few women seek professional assistance during prenatal care. Assessing the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of pregnant women related to UI can contribute to the development and improvement of the quality of interventions performed during this period. For this, it is essential to apply targeted and valid instruments for this population. Thus, the present study aimed to construct and validate the content of a scale to evaluate the KAP of pregnant women related to UI. METHODS: Extensive literature review guided the operationalization of the instrument's initial items. Ten experts were selected for the theoretical analysis of the items, which was carried out using the Delphi technique, and the analysis of semantic adequacy proceeded from the application of the scale to 30 pregnant women. The data were analyzed using the content validity coefficient and kappa coefficient. RESULTS: The proposed Scale of Pregnant Women's Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice related to UI was approved by consensus by the experts, with a mean Cohen's kappa of 0.84 (p < 0.01), comprising 23 items. CONCLUSIONS: The results of the study confirm that the presented scale can be used as a valid tool to assess the KAP of pregnant women related to UI.

Prevalence of sarcopenia in older women with pelvic floor dysfunction.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia is a determinant of age-related skeletal muscle weakness. In this sense, it is believed that there may be a pathophysiological association between pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) and sarcopenia; however, few articles investigating an association between these two pathologies have been published. OBJECTIVES: To identify the prevalence of sarcopenia in older women with PFD and verify the association between the severity of PFD and the severity of sarcopenia. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was undertaken in urogynaecology outpatient clinics in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil. Women with PFD aged ≥ 60 years were included. Women with cognitive impairments, amputations and/or limb fractures were excluded. Sociodemographic, anthropometric and PFD data were evaluated, and tests for measuring muscle strength, muscle mass and physical performance were performed. RESULTS: In total, 217 women were included in this study; of these, 121 (55.8%) presented without sarcopenia, 71 (32.7%) presented with probable sarcopenia, 23 (10.6%) presented with confirmed sarcopenia, and two (0.9%) presented with severe sarcopenia. Regarding sarcopenia related to PFD, a higher prevalence of probable sarcopenia was observed in women with urinary incontinence (UI) (n = 55, 77.5%). Confirmed sarcopenia was more prevalent in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) (n = 19, 82.6%); among these cases, most women had POP of the anterior, posterior and apical compartments (n = 8, 42.1%). All the women with severe sarcopenia had UI and POP and, considering the specific types of these dysfunctions, the prevalence of severe sarcopenia was 50.0% in the women with UI and POP of the anterior and apical wall. The most severe stages of POP were associated with sarcopenia (p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of sarcopenia in women with PFD was high. Healthcare providers who assist women with PFD should consider the possibility of assessing sarcopenia, especially when faced with more extensive POP in older women. The evaluation of sarcopenia may play a role in the management of women with PFD.

Lower urinary tract symptoms in female prison inmates: prevalence and impact on quality of life.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The objective was to estimate the prevalence and assess the impact of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) on the quality of life of incarcerated women. METHODS: Cross-sectional study conducted with 307 incarcerated women from the state of Ceará, Brazil, from June to September 2018. To identify the prevalence of symptoms, an instrument was developed according to the recommendations of the International Continence Society. To assess the frequency, intensity, and impact of the identified symptoms on quality of life, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form and King's Health Questionnaire were applied. RESULTS: The profile of the inmates was mostly young women (mean = 32.9 ± 11.8 years), Black, who had been in prison for a mean of 17.3 ± 12.0 months. Approximately half (n = 152, 49.5%) presented with storage complaints, with emphasis on urinary incontinence (n = 61, 19.9%), nocturia (n = 55, 17.9%), and urinary urgency (n = 45, 14.7%). Among the voiding symptoms (n = 71, 23.1%), dysuria (n = 39, 12.7%), and recurrent UTI (n = 44, 14.3%) were the most frequent. The complaint of incomplete bladder emptying (19.5%) was mentioned by 60 of the inmates. Sociodemographic data and environmental conditions were mainly associated with storage symptoms (p = 0.019). Women from prisons 2 and 3 presented with a greater impact on the quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of LUTS in female inmates, together with unhealthy toileting behaviors within the prison units, indicate that incarceration might play a role in the occurrence of these symptoms, while also affecting quality of life. The acknowledgement and investigation of these symptoms is important for improving health care in prisons.

Factors Associated with Sexual Activity for Women with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction - A Cross-Sectional Study.

OBJECTIVE: To examine women with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFDs) and identify factors associated with sexual activity (SA) status that impacts quality of life (QoL). METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study that included women > 18 years old who presented with at least one PFD symptom (urinary incontinence [UI] and/or pelvic organ prolapse [POP]), in outpatient clinics specializing in urogynecology and PFD in Fortaleza, state of Ceará, Brazil, using a service evaluation form and QoL questionnaires. RESULTS: The analysis of 659 women with PFD included 286 SA (43.4%) women and 373 non-sexually active (NSA) (56.6%) women, with a mean age of 54.7 (±12) years old. The results revealed that age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.12) and post-menopausal status (OR = 2.28, 95% CI 1.08-4.8) were negatively associated with SA. Being married (OR = 0.43, 95% CI 0.21-0.88) was associated with SA. Pelvic organ prolapse (OR = 1.16, 95% CI 0.81-1.68) and UI (OR = 0.17, 95% CI 0.08-0.36) did not prevent SA. SF-36 Health Survey results indicated that only the domain functional capacity was significantly worse in NSA women (p = 0.012). Two King's Health Questionnaire domains in NSA women, impact of UI (p = 0.005) and personal relationships (p < 0.001), were significantly associated factors. Data from the Prolapse Quality-of-life Questionnaire indicated that NSA women exhibited compromised QoL. CONCLUSION: Postmenopausal status and age negatively affected SA. Being married facilitated SA. Presence of POP and UI did not affect SA. However, NSA women with POP exhibited compromised QoL.

OBJETIVO: Examinar mulheres com disfunções do assoalho pélvico (DAP) e identificar fatores associados ao status de atividade sexual (AS) e impacto na qualidade de vida (QV). MéTODOS: Realizamos um estudo transversal, no qual participaram mulheres > 18 anos, que apresentaram pelo menos um sintoma de DAP (incontinência urinária [UI] e/ou prolapso de órgão pélvico [POP]), em ambulatórios especializados em uroginecologia e DAP em Fortaleza, CE, Brasil, utilizando um formulário de avaliação de serviço e questionários de QV. RESULTADOS: A análise de 659 mulheres com DAP incluiu 286 mulheres sexualmente ativas (SA) (43,4%) e 373 mulheres não sexualmente ativas (NSA) (56,6%), com idade média de 54,7 (±12) anos. Os resultados revelaram que idade (odds ratio [OR] = 1,07; intervalo de confiança [IC] 95%: 1,03­1,12) e status pós-menopausa (OR = 2,28; IC 95% 1,08­4,8) foram negativamente associados à atividade sexual. O casamento (OR = 0,43; IC 95% 0,21­0,88) foi associado à AS. Por outro lado, POP (OR = 1,16; IC 95% 0,81­1,68) e IU (OR = 0,17; IC 95% 0,08­0,36) não impediram a AS. Os resultados do SF-36 Health Survey indicaram que apenas a capacidade funcional do domínio (p = 0,012) foi significativamente pior em mulheres NSA. Dois domínios King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ, na sigla em inglês) em mulheres NSA, impacto da IU (p = 0,005) e relacionamento pessoal (p < 0,001), foram fatores significativamente associados. Os dados do Prolapse Quality-of-life Questionnaire (P-QoL, na sigla em inglês) indicaram que as mulheres NSA apresentavam QV comprometida. CONCLUSãO: O status pós-menopausa e a idade afetaram negativamente a AS, enquanto o casamento facilitou a AS. A presença de POP e IU não afetou a AS. No entanto, as mulheres NSA com POP apresentaram QV comprometida.

Pessary evaluation for genital prolapse treatment: From acceptance to successful fitting.

AIMS: To determine the percentage of women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse who opted for pessary and had a successful pessary fitting trial; to identify the most commonly used size of pessary for stage of prolapse; and to identify risk factors associated with unsuccessful fitting. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study of women with symptoms of genital prolapse referred to a public hospital tertiary care clinic (2013-2019). We used ring and ring with support pessaries for fittings. We collected patient demographics, pelvic organ prolapse quantification, size of pessary used and evaluated factors associated with pessary fittings. We defined unsuccessful fit as failure to continue pessary use at 4 weeks post fitting trial. We used Mann-Whitney and χ2 tests to compare variables between groups of successfully and unsuccessfully fitted. Using logistic regression, we built a prediction model for unsuccessful fit. RESULTS: All 170 women with symptomatic prolapse referred to our clinic accepted to undergo a pessary fitting. More than 70% (n = 124/72.9%) were successfully at 4 weeks. We used an average of 1.7 pessaries (range: 1-6) per patient to identify the best-fitting pessary and #2, 5, 3, 7, and 4 were the sizes commonly used (78.2%). Women with body mass index ≥30 kg/m2 (odds ratio [OR]: 4.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.98-11.32; P < .001), total vaginal length <7.5 cm (OR: 3.78; 95% CI, 1.98-11.32; P < .001), and sexually active women (OR: 2.26; 95% CI, 1.04-4.91; P = .035) were associated with increased unsuccessful fitting. CONCLUSION: The vaginal pessary proved to be an excellent choice, with high acceptance and successful fitting rates.

Joint report of SBI (Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases), FEBRASGO (Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations), SBU (Brazilian Society of Urology) and SBPC/ML (Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine): recommendations for the clinical management of lower urinary tract infections in pregnant and non-pregnant women.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common condition in women. There is an increased concern on reduction of bacterial susceptibility resulting from wrongly prescribing antimicrobials. This paper summarizes the recommendations of four Brazilian medical societies (SBI - Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases, FEBRASGO - Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations, SBU - Brazilian Society of Urology, and SBPC/ML - Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine) on the management of urinary tract infection in women. Asymptomatic bacteriuria should be screened at least twice during pregnancy (early and in the 3rd trimester). All cases of significant bacteriuria (≥105CFU/mL in middle stream sample) should be treated with antimicrobials considering safety and susceptibility profile. In women with typical symptoms of cystitis, dipsticks are not necessary for diagnosis. Urine cultures should be collected in pregnant women, recurrent UTI, atypical cases, and if there is suspicion of pyelonephritis. First line antimicrobials for cystitis are fosfomycin trometamol in a single dose and nitrofurantoin, 100mg every 6hours for five days. Second line drugs are cefuroxime or amoxicillin-clavulanate for seven days. During pregnancy, amoxicillin and other cephalosporins may be used, but with a higher chance of therapeutic failure. In recurrent UTI, all episodes should be confirmed by urine culture. Treatment should be initiated only after urine sampling and with the same regimens indicated for isolated episodes. Prophylaxis options of recurrent UTI are behavioral measures, non-antimicrobial and antimicrobial prophylaxis. Vaginal estrogens may be recommended for postmenopausal women. Other non-antimicrobial prophylaxis, including cranberry and immunoprophylaxis, have weak evidence supporting their use. Antimicrobial prophylaxis may be offered as a continuous or postcoital scheme. In pregnant women, options are cephalexin, 250-500mg and nitrofurantoin, 100mg (contraindicated after 37 weeks of pregnancy). Nonpregnant women may use fosfomycin trometamol, 3g every 10 days, or nitrofurantoin, 100mg (continuous or postcoital).

Joint report of SBI (Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases), FEBRASGO (Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations), SBU (Brazilian Society of Urology) and SBPC/ML (Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine): recommendations for the clinical management of lower urinary tract infections in pregnant and non-pregnant women

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common condition in women. There is an increased concern on reduction of bacterial susceptibility resulting from wrongly prescribing antimicrobials. This paper summarizes the recommendations of four Brazilian medical societies (SBI ­ Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases, FEBRASGO ­ Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics Associations, SBU ­ Brazilian Society of Urology, and SBPC/ML ­ Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology/Laboratory Medicine) on the management of urinary tract infection in women. Asymptomatic bacteriuria should be screened at least twice during pregnancy (early and in the 3rd trimester). All cases of significant bacteriuria (≥105 CFU/mL in middle stream sample) should be treated with antimicrobials considering safety and susceptibility profile. In women with typical symptoms of cystitis, dipsticks are not necessary for diagnosis. Urine cultures should be collected in pregnant women, recurrent UTI, atypical cases, and if there is suspicion of pyelonephritis. First line antimicrobials for cystitis are fosfomycin trometamol in a single dose and nitrofurantoin, 100 mg every 6 hours for five days. Second line drugs are cefuroxime or amoxicillin-clavulanate for seven days. During pregnancy, amoxicillin and other cephalosporins may be used, but with a higher chance of therapeutic failure. In recurrent UTI, all episodes should be confirmed by urine culture. Treatment should be initiated only after urine sampling and with the same regimens indicated for isolated episodes. Prophylaxis options of recurrent UTI are behavioral measures, nonantimicrobial and antimicrobial prophylaxis. Vaginal estrogens may be recommended for postmenopausal women. Other non-antimicrobial prophylaxis, including cranberry and immunoprophylaxis, have weak evidence supporting their use. Antimicrobial prophylaxis may be offered as a continuous or postcoital scheme. In pregnant women, options are cephalexin, 250­500 mg and nitrofurantoin, 100 mg (contraindicated after 37 weeks of pregnancy). Nonpregnant women may use fosfomycin trometamol, 3 g every 10 days, or nitrofurantoin, 100 mg (continuous or postcoital)

Women and healthcare providers' knowledge, attitudes and practice related to pessaries for pelvic organ prolapse: A Systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the knowledge, attitudes and practice of women and healthcare professionals in relation to pessary use for POP. METHOD: This systematic review was carried out in agreement with PRISMA recommendations. PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS, Virtual Health Library, Web of Science, CAPES Periodicals and CINAHL databases were searched for studies without date or language limitations. Search strategies were developed for identifying studies examining knowledge, attitudes and practice toward vaginal pessaries use. Two reviewers independently screened titles and abstracts to identify eligible studies. Data extraction was performed independently in duplicate into a standardized form. Quality of included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute quality assessment tool. The protocol was registered with the PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews [CRD42018114236]. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included. Knowledge and practice were the main domains investigated among patients and professionals, respectively. The results demonstrated poor patient knowledge; however, in urogynecologic patients, knowledge was better. Previous consultation with a Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery specialist (p = .001) and a higher level of education (p = .006) were associated with improved knowledge of pessary use. Fear of vaginal discharge, irritation, bleeding, and pain were factors that supported the decision not to use a pessary. Previous consultation with a generalist gynecologist (p = .03)and a lower level of education (p = .03) predicted aversion to pessary use. Providers demonstrated adequate knowledge and recommended pessary in 86.4% to 98.0% of cases. Having specialist and pessary management training were some factors that influenced a better attitude towards pessaries among health professionals. CONCLUSION: The knowledge, attitudes and practice of women and health care providers about pessary use are seldom investigated. Developing a psychometrically valid instrument for assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practice is desirable to examine the complex interactions between these three constructs, expose barriers to pessary care, and develop targeted educational interventions.

Factors associated with sexual activity for women with pelvic floor dysfunction - a cross-sectional study / Fatores associados à atividade sexual de mulheres com distúrbios do assoalho pélvico - um estudo transversal

Abstract Objective To examine women with pelvic floor dysfunction (PFDs) and identify factors associated with sexual activity (SA) status that impacts quality of life (QoL). Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study that includedwomen> 18 years old who presented with at least one PFD symptom (urinary incontinence [UI] and/or pelvic organ prolapse [POP]), in outpatient clinics specializing in urogynecology and PFD in Fortaleza, state of Ceará, Brazil, using a service evaluation form and QoL questionnaires. Results The analysis of 659 women with PFD included 286 SA (43.4%) women and 373 non-sexually active (NSA) (56.6%) women, with a mean age of 54.7 (±12) years old. The results revealed that age (odds ratio [OR]= 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.12) and post-menopausal status (OR= 2.28, 95% CI 1.08-4.8) were negatively associated with SA. Being married (OR= 0.43, 95% CI 0.21-0.88) was associated with SA. Pelvic organ prolapse (OR= 1.16, 95% CI 0.81-1.68) and UI (OR= 0.17, 95% CI 0.08-0.36) did not prevent SA. SF-36 Health Survey results indicated that only the domain functional capacity was significantly worse in NSA women (p= 0.012). Two King's Health Questionnaire domains in NSA women, impact of UI (p= 0.005) and personal relationships (p< 0.001), were significantly associated factors. Data from the Prolapse Quality-of-life Questionnaire indicated that NSA women exhibited compromised QoL. Conclusion Postmenopausal status and age negatively affected SA. Being married facilitated SA. Presence of POP and UI did not affect SA. However, NSAwomen with POP exhibited compromised QoL.

Resumo Objetivo Examinar mulheres com disfunções do assoalho pélvico (DAP) e identificar fatores associados ao status de atividade sexual (AS) e impacto na qualidade de vida (QV). Métodos Realizamos um estudo transversal, no qual participaram mulheres > 18 anos, que apresentaram pelo menos um sintoma de DAP (incontinência urinária [UI] e/ou prolapso de órgão pélvico [POP]), em ambulatórios especializados em uroginecologia e DAP emFortaleza, CE, Brasil, utilizando um formulário de avaliação de serviço e questionários de QV. Resultados A análise de 659 mulheres comDAP incluiu 286 mulheres sexualmente ativas (SA) (43,4%) e 373 mulheres não sexualmente ativas (NSA) (56,6%), com idade média de 54,7 (±12) anos. Os resultados revelaram que idade (odds ratio [OR]= 1,07; intervalo de confiança [IC] 95%: 1,03-1,12) e status pós-menopausa (OR= 2,28; IC 95% 1,08-4,8) foram negativamente associados à atividade sexual. O casamento (OR= 0,43; IC 95% 0,21-0,88) foi associado à AS. Por outro lado, POP (OR= 1,16; IC 95% 0,81-1,68) e IU (OR= 0,17; IC 95% 0,08-0,36) não impediram a AS. Os resultados do SF-36 Health Survey indicaram que apenas a capacidade funcional do domínio (p = 0,012) foi significativamente pior em mulheres NSA. Dois domínios King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ, na sigla em inglês) em mulheres NSA, impacto da IU (p = 0,005) e relacionamento pessoal (p< 0,001), foram fatores significativamente associados. Os dados do Prolapse Qualityof- life Questionnaire (P-QoL, na sigla em inglês) indicaram que as mulheres NSA apresentavam QV comprometida. Conclusão O status pós-menopausa e a idade afetaram negativamente a AS, enquanto o casamento facilitou a AS. A presença de POP e IU não afetou a AS. No entanto, as mulheres NSA com POP apresentaram QV comprometida.

Continence App: Construction and validation of a mobile application for postnatal urinary incontinence prevention.

OBJECTIVE: Describing the Continence App development as an educational technology to promote adherence to pelvic floor muscle training and prevent urinary incontinence in postpartum women. STUDY DESIGN: Study of technological production carried out in two stages: construction and validation. The first happened in four steps: modeling, navigation project, abstract design of the interface and implementation. In the validation phase 22 experts (11 health experts and 11 from the information technology/computing/communication areas) and 22 puerperal women were invited to evaluate the content and appearance of the education application. The content validity was analyzed through the Content Validity Index and the appearance validity through 75% minimum agreement in the items evaluated. The study was conducted during 2016 and 2017. For the content validation, the judges evaluated the following aspects: concepts and definitions used in the application, possibility of comprehension by the target audience and form of presentation. In order to validate the appearance, the installation, execution of the functions, objectives, usability, interface, practicality and interaction with the user were evaluated. RESULTS: Most of health experts were physiotherapists (n = 07) and professionals with a PhD (n = 07). Regarding the CVI, 100% of the evaluated items obtained values of 0.86 or greater. Most of information technology/computing/communication experts were male (81.8%) and of the information technology area (63.6%). Except for "restart sessions", "ways of presenting suggestions", "user interaction" and "motivates questioning", all the other aspects received between 81.8% and 100% positive responses. All items evaluated by the target audience obtained a minimum of 94.3% positive responses from the participants. In this step, points for adjustment were identified in relation to the application content and interface, which were promptly corrected. CONCLUSIONS: The application has been validated for use in clinical practice as an educational technology to promote adherence to pelvic floor muscle training and prevention of urinary incontinence in postpartum women.

Quality of Life in Women with Defecatory Dysfunctions: Systematic Review of Questionnaires Validated in the Portuguese Language.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the quality of life (QoL) assessment instruments related to the health of women with fecal incontinence (FI) or anal incontinence (AI). DATA SOURCES: Systematic review conducted in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. The descriptors used were: Questionnaire, Questionnaires, Quality of life, validation, validation Studies, anal incontinence, fecal incontinence and constipation. The search was performed between December 26, 2017 and the beginning of January 2018. The limits used were female gender. SELECTION OF STUDIES: Initially, 5,143 articles were obtained in the search. The articles of validation for Portuguese of questionnaires for the evaluation of the impact of FI/AI on the QoL of women were considered eligible. DATA COLLECTION: The article search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) guidelines. DATA SYNTHESIS: Of the 5,143 articles, only 2 fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria: Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life (FIQL) and the Wexner scale (WS). The FIQL evaluates the QoL related to FI, not covering flatus incontinence. The WS assesses flatus incontinence and the severity of the AI. The WS obtained an interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.932 and a Cronbach α coefficient > 0.90. The FIQL obtained intraexaminer and interexaminer reproducibility ranging from 0.929 to 0.957 and from 0.944 to 0.969, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The WS and the FIQL have satisfactory reliability and validity for use during gynecological consultations.

OBJETIVO: Identificar os instrumentos de avaliação da qualidade de vida (QV) relacionados à saúde de mulheres com incontinência fecal (IF) ou incontinência anal (IA). FONTES DOS DADOS: Revisão sistemática nas bases de dados da BVS, PubMed e Biblioteca Cochrane. Os descritores usados foram: Questionnaire, Questionnaires, Quality of life, validation, validation Studies, anal incontinence, fecal incontinence e constipation. A pesquisa foi realizada entre 26 de dezembro de 2017 até o início de janeiro de 2018. Os limites utilizados foram sexo feminino. SELEçãO DOS ESTUDOS: Inicialmente, 5.143 artigos foram obtidos na pesquisa. Os artigos de validação para o português de questionários de avaliação do impacto da IF/IA na QV das mulheres foram considerados elegíveis. COLETA DE DADOS: A busca de artigos foi conduzida de acordo com as diretrizes do Principais Itens para Relatar Revisões Sistemáticas e Meta-análises (PRISMA, na sigla em inglês). SíNTESES DOS DADOS: Dos 5.143 artigos, apenas 2 preencheram os critérios de inclusão e exclusão: Qualidade de Vida em Incontinência Fecal (FIQL, na sigla em inglês) e Escala de Wexner (WS, na sigla em inglês). O FIQL avalia a QV relacionada à FI, não abrangendo a incontinência de gases. O WS avalia a incontinência dos flatos e a gravidade da IA. O WS obteve um coeficiente de correlação interclasse (ICC, na sigla em inglês) de 0,932 e alfa de Cronbach > 0,90. O FIQL obteve reprodutibilidade intraexaminador e interexaminador variando de 0,929 a 0,957 e de 0,944 a 0,969, respectivamente. CONCLUSõES: O WS e o FIQL têm confiabilidade e validade satisfatória para uso durante consultas ginecológicas.

Quality of life in women with defecatory dysfunctions: systematic review of questionnaires validated in the portuguese language / Qualidade de vida em mulheres com disfunções defecatórias: revisão sistemática de questionários validados para a língua portuguesa

Abstract Objective To identify the quality of life (QoL) assessment instruments related to the health of women with fecal incontinence (FI) or anal incontinence (AI). Data Sources Systematic review conducted in the Virtual Health Library (VHL), PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. The descriptors used were: Questionnaire, Questionnaires, Quality of life, validation, validation Studies, anal incontinence, fecal incontinence and constipation. The search was performed between December 26, 2017 and the beginning of January 2018. The limits used were female gender. Selection of Studies Initially, 5,143 articles were obtained in the search. The articles of validation for Portuguese of questionnaires for the evaluation of the impact of FI/AI on the QoL of women were considered eligible. Data Collection The article search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes (PRISMA) guidelines. Data Synthesis Of the 5,143 articles, only 2 fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria: Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life (FIQL) and the Wexner scale (WS). The FIQL evaluates the QoL related to FI, not covering flatus incontinence. The WS assesses flatus incontinence and the severity of the AI. The WS obtained an interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.932 and a Cronbach α coefficient > 0.90. The FIQL obtained intraexaminer and interexaminer reproducibility ranging from 0.929 to 0.957 and from 0.944 to 0.969, respectively. Conclusions The WS and the FIQL have satisfactory reliability and validity for use during gynecological consultations.

Resumo Objetivo Identificar os instrumentos de avaliação da qualidade de vida (QV) relacionados à saúde de mulheres com incontinência fecal (IF) ou incontinência anal (IA). Fontes dos dados Revisão sistemática nas bases de dados da BVS, PubMed e Biblioteca Cochrane. Os descritores usados foram: Questionnaire, Questionnaires, Quality of life, validation, validation Studies, anal incontinence, fecal incontinence e constipation. A pesquisa foi realizada entre 26 de dezembro de 2017 até o início de janeiro de 2018. Os limites utilizados foram sexo feminino. Seleção dos estudos Inicialmente, 5.143 artigos foram obtidos na pesquisa. Os artigos de validação para o português de questionários de avaliação do impacto da IF/IA na QV das mulheres foram considerados elegíveis. Coleta de dados A busca de artigos foi conduzida de acordo com as diretrizes do Principais Itens para Relatar Revisões Sistemáticas e Meta-análises (PRISMA, na sigla em inglês). Sínteses dos dados Dos 5.143 artigos, apenas 2 preencheram os critérios de inclusão e exclusão: Qualidade de Vida em Incontinência Fecal (FIQL, na sigla em inglês) e Escala de Wexner (WS, na sigla em inglês). O FIQL avalia a QV relacionada à FI, não abrangendo a incontinência de gases. O WS avalia a incontinência dos flatos e a gravidade da IA. O WS obteve um coeficiente de correlação interclasse (ICC, na sigla em inglês) de 0,932 e alfa de Cronbach > 0,90. O FIQL obteve reprodutibilidade intraexaminador e interexaminador variando de 0,929 a 0,957 e de 0,944 a 0,969, respectivamente. Conclusões O WS e o FIQL têm confiabilidade e validade satisfatória para uso durante consultas ginecológicas.

Women's knowledge, attitude and practice related to urinary incontinence: systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) investigations lead to an understanding of what a particular population group knows, thinks and does in relation to a certain subject. METHODS: This systematic review was conducted to identify women's KAP related to urinary incontinence (UI) described in the literature and the measurement/evaluation instruments used. A literature search, up to July 2017, was conducted in PUBMED, SCOPUS and BVS (Virtual Health Library) for articles dealing with women's KAP related to UI that described the validation procedure of any data collection instrument. Articles that investigated exclusively male subjects, provider performance or academic teaching strategies were excluded. Relevant studies were analyzed and briefly summarized. RESULTS: Initially, 799 articles were retrieved. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 19 remained for reading and summarizing. There has been interest in identifying and evaluating some of the KAP elements related to UI since 1994, with a wide variety of validated instruments used. Knowledge was evaluated in 15 articles and all concluded that there was misinformation about UI in the populations studied. Seven articles studied the intention to seek healthcare for UI, among which only one evidenced an adequate attitude in more than 70% of the participants. All the articles that investigated practice revealed low rates of seeking care. CONCLUSIONS: The KAP elements are influenced by specific questions in each of the studied populations, leading to unique results, which indicates the importance of investigations using standardized data collection instruments that have psychometric validity tested in the target populations.

The effectiveness of post-partum interventions to prevent urinary incontinence: a systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: to assess the effectiveness of post-partum interventions to prevent urinary incontinence: a systematic review. METHOD: systematic review of randomized controlled studies conducted in the MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus and the Virtual Library on Health (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, BVS) databases. RESULTS: six articles were included in this review. All studies used the Pelvic Floor Muscle Training as the main procedure to prevent urinary incontinence. The results pointed to a positive and effective intervention in the post-partum period. CONCLUSION: there is evidence that programs of exercise of the pelvic floor musculature performed both in the immediate and late post-partum result in a significant increase in muscle strength and contribute to prevent urinary incontinence.

The effectiveness of post-partum interventions to prevent urinary incontinence: a systematic review / Eficacia de las intervenciones realizadas en el posparto para prevenir la incontinencia urinaria: revisión sistemática / Eficácia das intervenções realizadas no pós-parto para prevenir incontinência urinária: revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess the effectiveness of post-partum interventions to prevent urinary incontinence: a systematic review. Method: systematic review of randomized controlled studies conducted in the MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus and the Virtual Library on Health (Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, BVS) databases. Results: six articles were included in this review. All studies used the Pelvic Floor Muscle Training as the main procedure to prevent urinary incontinence. The results pointed to a positive and effective intervention in the post-partum period. Conclusion: there is evidence that programs of exercise of the pelvic floor musculature performed both in the immediate and late post-partum result in a significant increase in muscle strength and contribute to prevent urinary incontinence.

RESUMEN Objetivo: analizar la eficacia de las intervenciones realizadas en el posparto para prevenir la incontinencia urinaria. Método: revisión sistemática de estudios aleatorizados controlados, realizada en las bases de datos MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus y Biblioteca Virtual en Salud - BVS. Resultados: seis artículos fueron incluidos en la revisión. Todos los estudios utilizaron el Entrenamiento de la Musculatura del Piso Pélvico como intervención principal para prevenir la incontinencia urinaria y los resultados de las intervenciones apunta a un efecto positivo y eficaz del mismo en el posparto. Conclusión: hay evidencias de que programas de ejercicios de la musculatura del piso pélvico realizados tanto en el posparto inmediato como en el tardío resultan en un aumento significativo de la fuerza muscular y contribuyen a la prevención de la incontinencia urinaria.

RESUMO Objetivo: analisar a eficácia das intervenções realizadas no pós-parto para prevenção da incontinência urinária. Método: revisão sistemática de estudos randomizados controlados realizada nas bases de dados MEDLINE, Cochrane, Scopus e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde - BVS. Resultados: seis artigos foram inclusos na revisão. Todos os estudos utilizaram o Treinamento da Musculatura do Assoalho Pélvico como intervenção principal para prevenção da incontinência urinária e os resultados das intervenções apontaram para um efeito positivo e eficaz do mesmo no pós-parto. Conclusão: há evidências de que programas de exercícios da musculatura do assoalho pélvico realizados tanto no pós-parto imediato quanto no tardio resultam em aumento significativo da força muscular e contribuem para a prevenção da incontinência urinária.

Defecatory dysfunction and fecal incontinence in women with or without posterior vaginal wall prolapse as measured by pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q).

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is a complex condition that may be asymptomatic or may involve a loto f symptoms. This study evaluates defecatory dysfunction, fecal incontinence, and quality of life in relation to presence of posterior vaginal prolapse. METHODS: 265 patients were divided into two groups according to posterior POP-Q stage: posterior POP-Q stage ≥2 and posterior POP-Q stage <2. The two groups were compared regarding demographic and clinical data; overall POP-Q stage, percentage of patients with defecatory dysfunction, percentage of patients with fecal incontinence, pelvic floor muscle strength, and quality of life scores. The correlation between severity of the prolapse and severity of constipation was calculated using ρ de Spearman (rho). RESULTS: Women with Bp stage ≥2 were significantly older and had significantly higher BMI, numbers of pregnancies and births, and overall POP-Q stage than women with stage <2. No significant differences between the groups were observed regarding proportion of patients with defecatory dysfunction or incontinence, pelvic floor muscle strength, quality of life (ICIQ-SF), or sexual impact (PISQ-12). POP-Q stage did not correlate with severity of constipation and incontinence. General quality of life perception on the SF-36 was significantly worse in patients with POP-Q stage ≥2 than in those with POP-Q stage <2. CONCLUSIONS: The lack of a clinically important association between the presence of posterior vaginal prolapse and symptoms of constipation or anal incontinence leads us to agree with the conclusion that posterior vaginal prolapse probably is not an independent cause defecatory dysfunction or fecal incontinence.

Clinical impact of bowel symptoms in women with pelvic floor disorders.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlations between the POP-Q Bp point and the perineal body (Pb) and genital hiatus (Gh) measurements and constipation, anal incontinence, severity of symptoms and quality of life. METHODS: The patients were distributed into two groups according to the posterior vaginal wall Bp point: one group with Bp ≤-1 (without posterior vaginal wall prolapse, control group) and the other group with Bp ≥0 (with posterior vaginal wall prolapse, case group). Demographic data, defecatory dysfunction and SF-36 scores were compared between the groups. Correlations between severity of posterior prolapse (Bp, Gh, Pb and Gh + Pb) and severity of bowel symptoms were also calculated. RESULTS: A total of 613 women were evaluated, of whom 174 were included, 69 (39.7%) in the control group and 105 (60.3%) in the case group. The groups were similar in terms of anal incontinence, fecal urgency and/or constipation. There was no correlation between the severity of constipation and anal incontinence according to the Wexner score, and the severity of posterior vaginal wall prolapse measured in terms of point Bp. There were, however, statistically significant differences in Pb, Gh and Gh + Pb between the groups. The Pb and Gh + Pb measurements were positively correlated with symptoms of constipation, as well as with the scores of some SF-36 domains, but were not correlated with anal incontinence. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the severity of posterior vaginal wall prolapse is not correlated with constipation or anal incontinence, but Pb and Gh + Pb measurements are correlated with constipation and SF-36 scores.