Treatment of women with vaginal laxity: systematic review with meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite several treatments that have been used for women reporting vaginal laxity (VL), to our knowledge no systematic review is available on the topic so far. AIM: In this study, we sought to summarize the best available evidence about the efficacy and safety of interventions for treating VL, whether conservative or surgical. METHODS: A comprehensive search strategy was performed in Medline, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for reports of clinical trials published from database inception to September 2022. Studies selected for inclusion were in the English language and were performed to investigate any type of treatment for VL, with or without a comparator, whether nonrandomized studies or randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Case reports and studies without a clear definition of VL were excluded. OUTCOMES: The outcomes were interventions (laser, radiofrequency, surgery, and topical treatment), adverse effects, sexual function, pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength, and improvement of VL by the VL questionnaire (VLQ). RESULTS: From 816 records, 38 studies remained in the final analysis. Laser and radiofrequency (RF) were the energy-based treatment devices most frequently studied. Pooled data from eight observational studies have shown improved sexual function assessed by a Female Sexual Function Index score mean difference (MD) of 6.51 (95% CI, 5.61-7.42; i2 = 85%, P < .01) before and after intervention, whether by RF (MD, 6.00; 95% CI, 4.26-7.73; i2 = 80%; P < .001) or laser (MD, 6.83; 95% CI, 5.01-8.65; i2 = 92%; P < .01). However, this finding was not shown when only 3 RCTs were included, even when separated by type of intervention (RF or laser). When RF treatment was compared to sham controls, VLQ scores did not improve (MD, 1.01; 95% CI, -0.38 to 2.40; i2 = 94%; P < .001). Patient PFM strength improved after interventions were performed (MD, 4.22; 95% CI, 1.02-7.42; i2 = 77%; P < .001). The ROBINS-I (Risk Of Bias In Nonrandomized Studies of Interventions) tool classified all non-RCTs at serious risk of bias, except for 1 study, and the risk of bias-1 analysis found a low and unclear risk of bias for all RCTs. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) certainty of the evidence was moderate for sexual function and the VLQ questionnaire and low for PFM strength. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Sexual function in women with VL who underwent RF and laser treatment improved in observational studies but not in RCTs. Improvement in PFM strength was observed in women with VL after the intervention. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: Crucial issues were raised for the understanding of VL, such as lack of standardization of the definition and for the development of future prospective studies. A limitation of the study was that the heterogeneity of the interventions and different follow-up periods did not make it possible to pool all available data. CONCLUSIONS: Vaginal tightening did not improve sensation in women with VL after intervention, whereas RF and laser improved sexual function in women with VL according to data from observational studies, but not from RCTs. PFM strength was improved after intervention in women with VL.

Transobturator Versus Minisling for Urinary Incontinence: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

IMPORTANCE: The comparison between single-incision slings (SISs) and midurethral slings has been documented in the literature, but results vary according to the SIS device. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study is to assess whether SIS (Solyx) is noninferior to transobturator (TOT) (Obtryx) sling for treating women with confirmed stress-predominant urinary incontinence. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective, parallel, nonblinded, multicenter, noninferiority, randomized controlled study with 114 patients were randomized and followed 6 and 12 months after surgery. Interventions were midurethral TOT sling (Obtryx-halo; n = 58) or SIS (Solyx; n = 56). The primary outcome was improvement in the Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I). Secondary outcomes were the Kings Health Questionnaire (KHQ) instruments after treatment, subjective improvement, and surgical outcomes. RESULTS: Both groups were homogeneous ( P = NS) regarding sociodemographic and clinical variables. There was improvement in the PGI-I after 6 ( P = 0.001) and 12 months ( P = 0.001) of treatment for women who underwent TOT sling. After 6 months, KHQ scores improved in the TOT group for the following domains: role limitations ( P = 0.026) and physical limitations ( P = 0.006). After 12 months, the TOT group presented better KHQ scores that were statistically significant from the SIS group in incontinence impact ( P = 0.012), physical limitations ( P = 0.001), and severity measures ( P = 0.017). Moreover, the TOT group presented higher subjective improvement after 6 months ( P = 0.006) than the SIS group. Mesh erosion was higher in the SIS group ( P = 0.006). Reoperations were not statistically different between groups. CONCLUSION: There were higher scores in the PGI-I score and higher subjective improvement for the TOT sling after 6 and 12 months of treatment when compared with the SIS group.

Fecal incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse among women with premature ovarian insufficiency

Objectives: To assess the status of the pelvic floor muscle (PFM) of premature ovarian insufficiency women (POI women) and the incidence of fecal incontinence (FI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Methods: A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional study with 150 women with POI was performed. Pelvic floor muscle assessment was performed with the PERFECT scale. The subscales POPDI-6 and CRADI-8 of the questionnaire Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-20 (PFDI-20) were used for pelvic floor symptoms focused on FI and POP. Moreover, FI and POP were also assessed as dichotomous variables (yes/no). Results: Women with FI and POP did not present differences in the PFM assessment across P (p = 0.61), E (p = 0.78), R (p = 0.22), and F (p = 0.79) variables when compared with women with POI; no differences were also seen between women with and without POP according the pelvic muscles: P (p = 0.91), E (p = 0.99), R (p = 0.62), and F (p = 0.10). Women with FI and POP presented higher scores in all PFDI-20 subscales and total score when compared with the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions Pelvic floor muscle assessment within POI women with or without FI or POP did not differ. However, PF symptoms are more severe in the FI or POP groups. (AU)

Experience of a Tertiary Service in the Treatment of Women with Cervical Pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE: Cervical pregnancy is challenging for the medical community, as it is potentially fatal. The treatment can be medical or surgical; however, there are no protocols that establish the best option for each case. The objective of the present study was to describe the cases of cervical pregnancy admitted to a tertiary university hospital over a period of 18 years. METHODS: A retrospective study based on a review of the medical records of all cervical pregnancies admitted to the Women's Hospital at Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Southeastern Brazil, from 2000 to 2018. RESULTS: We identified 13 cases of cervical pregnancy out of a total of 673 ectopic pregnancies; only 1 case was initially treated with surgery because of hemodynamic instability. Of the 12 cases treated conservatively, 7 were treated with single-dose intramuscular methotrexate, 1, with intravenous and intramuscular methotrexate, 1, with intravenous methotrexate, 1, with 2 doses of intramuscular methotrexate, and 2, with intra-amniotic methotrexate. Of these cases, one had a therapeutic failure that required a hysterectomy. Two women received blood transfusions. Four women required cervical tamponade with a Foley catheter balloon for hemostasis. There was no fatal outcome. CONCLUSION: Cervical pregnancy is a rare and challenging condition from diagnosis to treatment. Conservative treatment was the primary method of therapy used, with satisfactory results. In cases of increased bleeding, cervical curettage was the initial treatment, and it was associated with the use of a cervical balloon for hemostasis.

OBJETIVO: A gravidez ectópica cervical é um desafio para a comunidade médica, pois pode ser fatal. O tratamento pode ser clínico ou cirúrgico, mas não existem protocolos que estabeleçam a melhor opção para cada caso. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os casos de gravidez ectópica cervical internados em um hospital universitário terciário durante 18 anos. MéTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo com revisão de prontuários de todas as gestações ectópicas cervicais internadas no Hospital da Mulher da Universidade Estadual de Campinas de 2000 a 2018. RESULTADOS: Foram identificados treze casos de gestação ectópica cervical em um total de 673 gestações ectópicas; apenas 1 caso foi inicialmente tratado com cirurgia por causa de instabilidade hemodinâmica. Dos 12 casos tratados conservadoramente, 7 foram tratados com metotrexato por via intramuscular em dose única, 1, com metotrexato pelas vias intravenosa e intramuscular, 1, com metotrexato por via intravenosa, 1, com 2 doses de metotrexato por via intramuscular, e 2, com metotrexato por via intra-amniótica. Desses casos, um apresentou falha terapêutica, e realizou-se uma histerectomia. Duas mulheres receberam transfusões de sangue. Quatro mulheres necessitaram de tamponamento cervical com cateter balão de Foley para hemostasia. Não houve casos fatais. CONCLUSãO: A gravidez cervical é uma condição rara e desafiadora desde o diagnóstico até o tratamento. O tratamento conservador foi o principal método terapêutico utilizado, com resultados satisfatórios. Nos casos de sangramento aumentado, a curetagem cervical foi o tratamento inicial, e foi associada ao uso de balão cervical para hemostasia.

Experience of a Tertiary Service in the Treatment of Women with Cervical Pregnancy / Experiência de um serviço terciário no tratamento de mulheres com gravidez ectópica cervical

Abstract Objective Cervical pregnancy is challenging for the medical community, as it is potentially fatal. The treatment can be medical or surgical; however, there are no protocols that establish the best option for each case. The objective of the present study was to describe the cases of cervical pregnancy admitted to a tertiary university hospital over a period of 18 years. Methods A retrospective study based on a review of the medical records of all cervical pregnancies admitted to the Women's Hospital at Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Southeastern Brazil, from 2000 to 2018. Results We identified 13 cases of cervical pregnancy out of a total of 673 ectopic pregnancies; only 1 case was initially treated with surgery because of hemodynamic instability. Of the 12 cases treated conservatively, 7 were treated with single-dose intramuscular methotrexate, 1, with intravenous and intramuscular methotrexate, 1, with intravenous methotrexate, 1, with 2 doses of intramuscular methotrexate, and 2, with intra-amniotic methotrexate. Of these cases, one had a therapeutic failure that required a hysterectomy. Two women received blood transfusions. Four women required cervical tamponade with a Foley catheter balloon for hemostasis. There was no fatal outcome. Conclusion Cervical pregnancy is a rare and challenging condition from diagnosis to treatment. Conservative treatment was the primary method of therapy used, with satisfactory results. In cases of increased bleeding, cervical curettage was the initial treatment, and it was associated with the use of a cervical balloon for hemostasis.

Resumo Objetivo A gravidez ectópica cervical é um desafio para a comunidade médica, pois pode ser fatal. O tratamento pode ser clínico ou cirúrgico, mas não existem protocolos que estabeleçam a melhor opção para cada caso. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os casos de gravidez ectópica cervical internados em um hospital universitário terciário durante 18 anos. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo com revisão de prontuários de todas as gestações ectópicas cervicais internadas no Hospital da Mulher da Universidade Estadual de Campinas de 2000 a 2018. Resultados Foram identificados treze casos de gestação ectópica cervical em um total de 673 gestações ectópicas; apenas 1 caso foi inicialmente tratado com cirurgia por causa de instabilidade hemodinâmica. Dos 12 casos tratados conservadoramente, 7 foram tratados com metotrexato por via intramuscular em dose única, 1, com metotrexato pelas vias intravenosa e intramuscular, 1, com metotrexato por via intravenosa, 1, com 2 doses de metotrexato por via intramuscular, e 2, com metotrexato por via intra-amniótica. Desses casos, um apresentou falha terapêutica, e realizou-se uma histerectomia. Duas mulheres receberam transfusões de sangue. Quatro mulheres necessitaram de tamponamento cervical com cateter balão de Foley para hemostasia. Não houve casos fatais. Conclusão A gravidez cervical é uma condição rara e desafiadora desde o diagnóstico até o tratamento. O tratamento conservador foi o principal método terapêutico utilizado, com resultados satisfatórios. Nos casos de sangramento aumentado, a curetagem cervical foi o tratamento inicial, e foi associada ao uso de balão cervical para hemostasia.

Vaginal stretching therapy and class IIIB vaginal laser treatment for pelvic floor myofascial pain: a randomized clinical trial.

PURPOSE: Several treatment options are proposed for the management of pelvic floor myofascial pain (PFMP). Manual therapy, such as vaginal stretching (VS), is one of these options. Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) with a laser device is a treatment option for PFMP that has been tested on other muscles. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of VS combined or not with PBMT for PFMP treatment. METHODS: One hundred three women with PFMP were enrolled in a double-blind randomized trial and assigned to VS+PBMT (10 treatments over 2 weeks with 100 mw delivering 12 joules to surface intravaginally, using near-infrared light 808 nm) and VS+shamPBMT treatment groups. Pain severity was assessed by Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Pelvic floor muscle function was assessed by Oxford Scale and surface electromyography. Urinary symptoms were evaluated by ICIQ-OAB and ICIQ-SF questionnaires, and intestinal constipation was assessed by ROMA criteria. RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in pain intensity (VAS) after treatment in both groups, with no difference between groups (p = 0.46). More than 50% of the women complained of severe pain before treatment, and after treatments, it was reported by less than 20% of women (p < 0.001), with no difference between groups (p = 0.08). Urinary symptoms improved in both groups (p < 0.001) with no difference between groups (p = 0.37). Intestinal constipation improved in the VS+PBMT group only (p = 0.01). CONCLUSION: VS and VS with near-infrared vaginal laser therapy were equally effective at decreasing myofascial pelvic pain and reducing urinary symptoms TRIAL REGISTRATION: REBEC (Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos; Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials) under no.RBR-2TDCQ4 (November 11, 2018).

Vaginal stenosis in women with cervical or endometrial cancer after pelvic radiotherapy: a cross-sectional study of vaginal measurements, risk for sexual dysfunction and quality of life.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Radiotherapy (RT) for cervical (CC) and endometrial cancer (EC) is known to lead to vaginal stenosis (VS), but the comparison between vaginal anatomical measurements and the risk of sexual dysfunction presents a wide variety of results among the literature. Thus, we sought to assess the prevalence of VS, vaginal measurements, sexual dysfunction and QOL in women with CC and EC submitted to pelvic RT with or without previous surgery. METHODS: Cross-sectional study that included 61 women with CC and 69 with EC. VS was classified by the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Effects version 5.0 (CTCAE v5.0), sexual function by the validated Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and QOL by the validated World Health Organization questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF). Acrylic cylinders were used for vaginal measurements. Uni-/multivariate analyses to address factors associated with VC in both groups were performed. RESULTS: The prevalence of VS was 79% and 67% within patients with CC and EC, respectively. Vagina length was decreased in both groups without statistical difference (7.2 ± 1.7 vs. 6.6 ± 1.8;p = 0.072). Vaginal diameter was significantly higher (p = 0.047) in women with EC (25.4 ± 6.3) than in those with CC (23.1 ± 5.7). Sexual dysfunction was highly prevalent for both CC and EC (88% vs. 91%; p = 0.598). There was no difference in all WHOQOL-BREF domains between women with CC and EC. CONCLUSIONS: VS is highly prevalent in CC and EC patients, with vaginal length decreased in both groups but with a higher vaginal diameter in those with EC. Nevertheless, sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in both groups.

ESTROgen use for complications in women treating pelvic organ prolapse with vaginal PESSaries (ESTRO-PESS)-a randomized clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: To evaluate the complications of new users' vaginal pessaries (VP), with and without the use of vaginal estrogen after a 6-month follow-up. METHODS: A parallel, single-blinded, randomized, controlled trial. Symptomatic postmenopausal women (n = 98) with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) (stage 3/4) were recruited from August 2018 to October 2019. Patients were randomized into the local estrogen group (promestriene 3 × for a week) and the control group (no estrogen). They were evaluated for their vaginal symptoms at the baseline, after 3 months, and after 6 months, and a physical examination and vaginal sampling for microbiological analysis were done. Data were analyzed according to an intention-to-treat analysis (ITT). A 5% significance level was established for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Twenty women discontinued treatment (20.4%), mainly due to pessary extrusion (n = 15) and 5 for other reasons (lost to follow-up, pain, and surgery). Baseline characteristics were not statistically different between the estrogen and control groups. Regarding the presence of complications, the presence of erosion was 10% in the control group, but there was no significant difference between the groups (p = 0.175) after 6 months. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) was more prevalent in the control group, according to the Nugent (p = 0.007) and Amsel (p = 0.014) criteria. Urinary urgency and increased urinary frequency were significantly improved in the estrogen group after 6 months. CONCLUSION: There was no evident benefit related to complications such as ulcerations, itching, and vaginal discharge/odor from the use of vaginal estrogen in POP women using pessaries.

Switching of Hormone Therapies in Breast Cancer Women.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to analyze the reasons that led to hormone therapies (HTs) regimen changes in women with breast cancer. METHODS: This was a retrospective cross-sectional study from a single-institution Brazilian cancer center with patient records diagnosed with breast cancer between January 2012 and January 2017. RESULTS: From 1,555 women who were in treatment with HT, 213 (13.7%) women had HT switched, either tamoxifen to anastrozole or vice-versa. Most women included in the present study who switched HT were > 50 years old, postmenopausal, Caucasian, and had at least one comorbidity. From the group with therapy change, 'disease progression' was reason of change in 124 (58.2%) cases, and in 65 (30.5%) patients, 'presence of side effects' was the reason. From those women who suffered with side effects, 24 (36.9%) had comorbidities. CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrated a low rate of HT switch of tamoxifen to anastrozole. Among the reasons for changing therapy, the most common was disease progression, which includes cancer recurrence, metastasis or increased tumor. Side effects were second; furthermore, age and comorbidities are risk factors for side effects.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar os motivos que levaram às mudanças no esquema hormonioterápico (HT) em mulheres com câncer de mama. MéTODOS: Estudo transversal retrospectivo realizado no Hospital da Mulher de Campinas e consequente pesquisa de prontuários de mulheres diagnosticados com câncer de mama entre janeiro de 2012 e janeiro de 2017. RESULTADOS: De 1.555 mulheres em tratamento com HT, 213 (13,7%) mulheres tiveram HT alterado, tamoxifeno para anastrozol ou vice-versa. A maioria das mulheres incluídas no presente estudo que tiveram mudança de HT tinha > 50 anos, estava na pós-menopausa, era caucasiana e tinha pelo menos uma comorbidade. Os principais motivos de troca de HT foram devido a 'progressão da doença', ocorrendo em 124 (58,2%) casos e a 'presença de efeitos colaterais' (n = 65; 30,5%). Das mulheres que sofreram efeitos colaterais, 24 (36,9%) apresentaram comorbidades. CONCLUSãO: O presente estudo demonstrou uma baixa taxa na alteração de tamoxifeno para anastrozol. Entre as razões mais comuns para alterar a HT estava a progressão da doença, que inclui recorrência do câncer, metástase ou aumento do tumor. Os efeitos colaterais foram a segunda causa e, além disso, a idade e as comorbidades foram fatores de risco para efeitos colaterais.

Mid- to Long-Term Magnetic Resonance Imaging Results of Two Prolapse Surgeries for Apical Defect: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been considered another tool for use during the pre- and postoperative periods of the management of pelvic-organ prolapse (POP). However, there is little consensus regarding its practical use for POP and the association between MRI lines of reference and physical examination. We aimed to evaluate the mid- to long-term results of two surgical techniques for apical prolapse. METHODS: In total, 40 women with apical POP randomized from 2014 to 2016 underwent abdominal sacrocolpopexy (ASC group; n = 20) or bilateral vaginal sacrospinous fixation with an anterior mesh (VSF-AM group; n = 20). A physical examination using the POP Quantification System (POP-Q) for staging (objective cure) and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Vaginal Symptoms (ICIQ-VS: subjective cure), were applied and analyzed before and one year after surgery respectively. All MRI variables (pubococcigeous line [PCL], bladder base [BB], anorectal junction [ARJ], and the estimated levator ani subtended volume [eLASV]) were investigated one year after surgery. Significance was established at p < 0.05. RESULTS: After a mean 27-month follow-up, according to the MRI criteria, 60% of the women were cured in the VSF-AM group versus 45% in ASC group (p = 0.52). The POP-Q and objective cure rates by MRI were correlated in the anterior vaginal wall (p = 0.007), but no correlation was found with the subjective cure. The eLASV was larger among the patients with surgical failure, and a cutoff of ≥ 33.5 mm3 was associated with postoperative failure (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [ROC]: 0.813; p = 0.002). CONCLUSION: Both surgeries for prolapse were similar regarding the objective variables (POP-Q measurements and MRI cure rates). Larger eLASV areas were associated with surgical failure.

OBJETIVO: A ressonância magnética (RM) tem sido considerada uma outra ferramenta para uso pré e pós-operatório em casos de prolapso de órgãos pélvicos. Contudo, pouco consenso existe sobre a sua prática para prolapso e a associação entre as linhas de referência da RM e o exame físico. Nós objetivamos avaliar resultados de médio a longo prazo de duas técnicas cirúrgicas para prolapso apical. MéTODOS: Um total de 40 mulheres com prolapso apical foram submetidas entre 2014 a 2016 a sacrocolpopexia abdominal (grupo SCA; n = 20) ou fixação bilateral vaginal no ligamento sacroespinhoso com tela anterior (grupo FVLS-TA; n = 20). Os exames físicos com estadiamento usando o Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System (POP-Q: cura objetiva), e o International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Vaginal Symptoms (ICIQ-VS: cura subjetiva) foram analisados antes e depois de um ano da cirurgia, respectivamente. O exame de RM (linha pubococcígea [LPC], base vesical [BV], junção anorretal [JAR] e o volume subtendido estimado do levantador do ânus [VSELA]) foi realizado um ano antes da cirurgia. Estabeleceu-se o nível de significância em 5%. RESULTADOS: Depois de uma média de 27 meses de seguimento, de acordo com a RM, 60% das mulheres foram curadas no grupo FVLS-TA versus 45% no grupo SCA (p = 0.52). As curas objetivas associadas ao POP-Q e à RM foram correlacionadas na parede vaginal anterior (p = 0.007), mas nenhuma correlação foi encontrada com a cura subjetiva. O VSELA foi maior entre as pacientes com fracasso da cirurgia, e um ponto de corte de ≥ 33.5 mm3 esteve associado ao fracasso da cirurgia (area sob a curva característica de operação do receptor [COR]: 0.813; p = 0.002). CONCLUSãO: Ambas as cirurgias para o prolapso foram similares nas curas objetivas tanto pelo POP-Q quanto pela RM. Áreas maiores de VSELA estiveram associadas com o fracasso das cirurgias.

Pelvic floor muscle assessment by digital palpation and translabial ultrasound of women with cervical or endometrial cancer after pelvic radiotherapy: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: We hypothesized that anatomical changes in the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) could be detected using four-dimensional translabial ultrasound (4D TLUS) in patients with cervical (CC) or endometrial cancer (EC) who underwent pelvic radiotherapy (RT) as digital palpation may present sensitivity limitations. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study that included 64 women (26 with CC and 38 with EC). PFM function was assessed by digital palpation, grading muscle strength according to the Modified Oxford Scale and by 4D TLUS. Ultrasonographic variables were: levator plate angle, hiatal area, puborectalis muscle thickness, puborectalis strain and levator ani muscle integrity. These variables were also correlated with clinical and sociodemographic data from all these patients. A 5% significance level was adopted. RESULTS: When assessed by digital palpation, no significant difference was found in PFM strength between women with CC and those with EC (p = 0.747). However, when assessed by 4D TLUS, women with CC presented greater thickening of the left (p = 0.039) and right (p = 0.014) lower portion of the puborectalis muscle during PFM contraction compared to those with EC. After pooling the groups, higher cancer staging (p = 0.028) was associated with smaller narrowing in the symphysis-levator distance, and shorter RT finishing duration (< 60 months) was associated with higher thickening in the left (p = 0.029) and right (p = 0.013) upper portion of the puborectalis muscle during PFM contraction as well as a shorter menopause duration (p = 0.007 and p = 0.002, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Anatomical changes in the puborectalis muscle during PFM contraction were detected by 4D TLUS within gynecological cancer patients after pelvic RT.

Fatores associados à incontinência urinária em mulheres pós-parto / Factors associated with urinary incontinence in postpartum women

Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência dos tipos de incontinência urinária em mulheres após parto vaginal e cesárea, e identificar os fatores de risco associados à presen- ça e à gravidade da incontinência urinária nessa população. Métodos: Estudo de corte transversal com 120 mulheres, 12 a 18 meses após o parto, entrevistadas por telefone com questionários validados sobre sintomas urinários e vaginais. Para análise estatística, utilizamos qui-quadrado, teste de Mann-Whitney e Kruskal- -Wallis, e regressão uni e multivariada. Resultados: Das 120 mulheres incluídas no estudo, 68 (56,7%) tiveram parto vaginal, 23 (19,2%), cesárea eletiva e 29 (24,1%), cesárea após trabalho de parto. A prevalência de incontinência urinária foi de 52,5% e a de incontinência urinária de esforço, de 40%, sem diferença com relação ao parto (p = 0,945 e 0,770). A maioria apresentava incontinência urinária leve (80%), e não houve diferença nas médias dos questionários de incontinência urinária e sintomas vaginais e sexuais e qualidade de vida entre os tipos de parto (p = 0,691, 0,750, 0,262 e 0,779). A prevalência de incontinência urinária esteve associada com idade ≥ 30 anos (p = 0,046) e incontinência urinária durante a gestação (p < 0,001). Com relação à incontinência urinária de esforço, os fatores associados foram incontinência urinária durante a gestação (p < 0,001) e partos vaginais (p = 0,038). Conclusão: Incontinência urinária e incontinência urinária de esforço são muito prevalentes após 12-18 meses do parto, porém sem diferenças com relação à via de parto. Perda urinária durante a gestação e idade maior que 30 anos são fatores de risco para incontinência urinária e incontinência urinária de esforço. A gravidade da perda urinária está associada também a perda durante a gestação e maiores índices de massa corporal.(AU)

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of types of urinary incontinence in women after vaginal delivery and cesarean section; and to identify the risk factors associated with the presence and severity of UI in this population. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 120 women, 12 to 18 months after delivery, telephone interviews with validated questionnaires on urinary and vaginal symptoms. For statistical analysis, we used chi-square, Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis test, uni and multivariate regression. Results: Of the 120 women included in the study, 68 (56.7%) had vaginal delivery, 23 (19.2%) cesarean section and 29 (24.1%) cesarean sections after labor. The prevalence of UI was 52.5% and SUI 40%, with no difference in relation to delivery (p = 0.945 and 0.770). The majority had mild UI (80%) and there was no difference in the mean questionnaires of urinary incontinence and vaginal, sexual and quality of life symptoms among the types of delivery (p = 0.691, 0.750, 0.262 and 0.779). The prevalence of UI was associated with age ≥ 30 years (p = 0.046) and UI during pregnancy (p < 0.001). Regarding SUI, the associated factors were UI during pregnancy (p < 0.001) and vaginal deliveries (p = 0.038). Conclusion: UI and SUI are very prevalent after 12-18 months of delivery, but no differences regarding the route of delivery. Urinary loss during pregnancy and age over 30 years are risk factors for UI and SUI. The severity of urinary loss is also associated with loss during pregnancy and higher BMI.(AU)

Pelvic floor parameters in women with gynecological endocrinopathies: a systematic review.

There is no pooled information about pelvic floor parameters (muscle assessment, disorders) of women with gynecologicaL endocrinopathies (eg. polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, premature ovarian insufficiency). Given that, a systematic review was performed on the Pubmed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Scielo and PEDro databases regarding the main gynecological endocrinopathies [polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and hyperprolactinemia (HPL)] since their inception to April 2020. Data quality assessment was made by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) adapted for cross-sectional studies. A total of 4,272 results were retrieved from all databases. After excluding duplicate results and screening by title and abstract, nine studies were selected for quantitative analysis. Seven studies were performed with women with PCOS and two studies with POI. Women with PCOS presented a higher prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) among obese women, a higher thickness of the levator ani muscle, and higher levels of muscle activity measured by surface electromyograph when compared to the control women. Regarding POI, there was no association with UI, FI, and POP. NOS found that the quality assessment for these selected studies ranged from 5 to 8. We concluded that higher pelvic muscle activity and volume were found in women with PCOS, with further studies needed to confirm this data. Literature was scant about POI, CAH, and HPL.

Pelvic floor parameters in women with gynecological endocrinopathies: a systematic review

SUMMARY There is no pooled information about pelvic floor parameters (muscle assessment, disorders) of women with gynecologicaL endocrinopathies (eg. polycystic ovary syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, premature ovarian insufficiency). Given that, a systematic review was performed on the Pubmed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Scielo and PEDro databases regarding the main gynecological endocrinopathies [polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and hyperprolactinemia (HPL)] since their inception to April 2020. Data quality assessment was made by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) adapted for cross-sectional studies. A total of 4,272 results were retrieved from all databases. After excluding duplicate results and screening by title and abstract, nine studies were selected for quantitative analysis. Seven studies were performed with women with PCOS and two studies with POI. Women with PCOS presented a higher prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) among obese women, a higher thickness of the levator ani muscle, and higher levels of muscle activity measured by surface electromyograph when compared to the control women. Regarding POI, there was no association with UI, FI, and POP. NOS found that the quality assessment for these selected studies ranged from 5 to 8. We concluded that higher pelvic muscle activity and volume were found in women with PCOS, with further studies needed to confirm this data. Literature was scant about POI, CAH, and HPL.

RESUMO Existe informação não organizada sobre a avaliação do assoalho pélvico de mulheres com endocrinopatias ginecológicas (ex. síndrome dos ovários policísticos - SOP, hiperplasia adrenal congênita - HAC, insuficiência ovariana prematura - IOP). Dessa forma, objetivamos realizar uma revisão sistemática foi realizada nas bases Pubmed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Scielo e PEDro sobre as endocrinopatias ginecológicas (SOP, HAC, IOP e hiperprolactinemia (HPL) desde a origem a abril de 2020. A avaliação da qualidade de dados foi real-izada pela escala de Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) adaptada para estudos transversais. De 4,272 resultados encontrados em todas as databases, após exclusão por duplicatas, triando por título e resumos, nove estudos foram selecionados para análise quantitativa. Sete estudos foram realizados para mulheres com SOP e dois estudos com IOP. Em suma, mulheres com SOP apresentados uma alta prevalência de incontinência urinária (IU) em mulheres obesas, alta espessura do músculo elevador do ânus, altos níveis de atividade muscular aferida por eletromiografia de superfície quando comparadas com mulheres do grupo controle. Sobre a IOP, esta não foi associada com IU, IF e POP. A escala NOS evidenciou que a qualidade dos estudos selecionados variou de 5 a 8. Concluímos que uma alta atividade e volume muscular foi encontrada em mulheres com SOP, com estudos posteriores sendo necessários para confirmar estes achados. Literatura foi escassa para IOP, HAC e HPL.

Urinary Incontinence and Overactive Bladder Symptoms in Women with Breast Cancer Being Treated with Oral Hormone Therapy.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study is to observe the frequency and severity of urinary symptoms in women with breast cancer (BC) being treated with oral hormone therapy, associating them to drug adherence. METHODS: The participants were interviewed once from June to October 2016. The evaluation of urinary symptoms was performed by two questionnaires: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF) and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder Module (ICIQ-OAB). Adherence was evaluated by the Morisky-Green method. Statistical analysis was performed by the Mann-Whitney test, linear regression, and Spearman correlation. RESULTS: Fifty-eight women were interviewed: 42 treated with tamoxifen and 16 with aromatase inhibitor. Twenty-seven women (46.5%) presented urinary incontinence symptoms and 15 (25.8%) presented stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Fourteen (24.1%) women had symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). There was no statistical difference in symptoms between both treatments and duration of treatments. Higher scores in the ICIQ-SF questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence and advanced age. Higher scores in the ICIQ-OAB questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence. CONCLUSION: The present study showed a high prevalence of urinary symptoms, such as urinary incontinence and OAB, associated with low/medium adherence and older age in women with BC being treated with oral hormone therapy. Health professionals should be alert to these symptoms since it could influence life quality and adherence to treatment.

OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi observar a frequência e a gravidade dos sintomas urinários em mulheres com câncer de mama em uso de terapia hormonal oral, associando estes com a adesão ao tratamento. MéTODOS: As pacientes foram entrevistadas uma única vez, entre junho e outubro de 2016. A avaliação dos sintomas urinários foi realizada por dois questionários: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF, na sigla em inglês) e o Questionário Sobre Bexiga Hiperativa (ICIQ-OAB, na sigla em inglês). A adesão foi avaliada pelo método Morisky-Green. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste de Mann-Whitney, regressão linear e correlação de Spearman. RESULTADOS: Foram entrevistadas 58 mulheres: 42 tratadas com tamoxifeno e 16 com inibidor de aromatase. Vinte e sete mulheres (46,5%) apresentaram sintomas de incontinência urinária (IU) e 15 (25,8%) apresentaram incontinência urinária por estresse (IUS). Quatorze (24,1%) das mulheres tinham sintomas de bexiga hiperativa. Não houve diferença estatística nos sintomas entre os tratamentos e a duração dos tratamentos. Os escores mais elevados no questionário ICIQ-SF estiveram associados à baixa/média adesão e à idade avançada. Os escores mais elevados no questionário da ICIQ-OAB foram associados à baixa/média adesão. CONCLUSãO: O presente estudo mostrou alta prevalência de sintomas urinários, como IU e bexiga hiperativa, associadas à baixa/média adesão e à idade mais avançada em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento com hormonioterapia oral. Os profissionais de saúde devem estar atentos a esses sintomas, pois eles podem influenciar a qualidade de vida e a adesão ao tratamento.

Urinary incontinence and overactive bladder symptoms in women with breast cancer being treated with oral hormone therapy / Incontinência urinária e sintomas de bexiga hiperativa em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento com terapia hormonal oral

Abstract Objective: The objective of the present study is to observe the frequency and severity of urinary symptoms in women with breast cancer (BC) being treated with oral hormone therapy, associating them to drug adherence. Methods: The participants were interviewed once from June to October 2016. The evaluation of urinary symptoms was performed by two questionnaires: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF) and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder Module (ICIQ-OAB). Adherence was evaluated by the Morisky-Green method. Statistical analysis was performed by the Mann-Whitney test, linear regression, and Spearman correlation. Results: Fifty-eight women were interviewed: 42 treated with tamoxifen and 16 with aromatase inhibitor. Twenty-seven women (46.5%) presented urinary incontinence symptoms and 15 (25.8%) presented stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Fourteen (24.1%) women had symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). There was no statistical difference in symptoms between both treatments and duration of treatments. Higher scores in the ICIQ-SF questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence and advanced age. Higher scores in the ICIQ-OAB questionnaire were associated with low/medium adherence. Conclusion: The present study showed a high prevalence of urinary symptoms, such as urinary incontinence and OAB, associated with low/medium adherence and older age in women with BC being treated with oral hormone therapy. Health professionals should be alert to these symptoms since it could influence life quality and adherence to treatment.

Resumo Objetivo: O objetivo do presente estudo foi observar a frequência e a gravidade dos sintomas urinários em mulheres com câncer de mama em uso de terapia hormonal oral, associando estes com a adesão ao tratamento. Métodos: As pacientes foram entrevistadas uma única vez, entre junho e outubro de 2016. A avaliação dos sintomas urinários foi realizada por dois questionários: International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short Form (ICIQ-SF, na sigla em inglês) e o Questionário Sobre Bexiga Hiperativa (ICIQ-OAB, na sigla em inglês). A adesão foi avaliada pelo método Morisky-Green. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo teste de Mann-Whitney, regressão linear e correlação de Spearman. Resultados: Foram entrevistadas 58 mulheres: 42 tratadas com tamoxifeno e 16 com inibidor de aromatase. Vinte e sete mulheres (46,5%) apresentaram sintomas de incontinência urinária (IU) e 15 (25,8%) apresentaram incontinência urinária por estresse (IUS). Quatorze (24,1%) das mulheres tinham sintomas de bexiga hiperativa. Não houve diferença estatística nos sintomas entre os tratamentos e a duração dos tratamentos. Os escores mais elevados no questionário ICIQ-SF estiveram associados à baixa/média adesão e à idade avançada. Os escores mais elevados no questionário da ICIQ-OAB foram associados à baixa/média adesão. Conclusão: O presente estudo mostrou alta prevalência de sintomas urinários, como IU e bexiga hiperativa, associadas à baixa/média adesão e à idade mais avançada em mulheres com câncer de mama em tratamento com hormonioterapia oral. Os profissionais de saúde devem estar atentos a esses sintomas, pois eles podem influenciar a qualidade de vida e a adesão ao tratamento.

Factors associated with unsuccessful pessary fitting in women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse: Systematic review and metanalysis.

AIMS: To identify the factors associated with unsuccessful pessary fitting and reasons for discontinuation for women with symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS: This systematic review is registered at the PROSPERO database. We have included all studies, regardless of the study design whose primary outcomes were factors associated with unsuccessful pessary fitting and discontinuation for symptomatic POP women. Exclusion criteria were case series, literature reviews, other forms of conservative treatment. Data selection/extraction was performed by two investigators. For pessary fitting, a meta-analysis was performed for at least two studies pooled in a forest plot. The risk of bias was classified by the ROBINS-I and ROB-2 classification. RESULTS: From 409 studies retrieved after data search, only twenty-one articles remained for final analysis (18 cohort studies, 1 cross-sectional study, and 2 RCTs). Meta-analysis was performed in nine studies for pessary fitting and the associated factors were: higher body mass index (BMI) (MD = 0.688 [0.233-1.143]; P = .03; i2 = 0%), previous reconstructive surgery (OR = 1.705 [1.016-2.860]; P = .043; i2 = 69%) and advanced POP (OR = 4.2 [2.9-6.1]; P < .05; i2 = 92%). Older age, larger total vaginal length (TVL), and genital hiatus and previous hysterectomy were not associated factors. Regarding discontinuation, thirteen reasons were quoted, and the most frequent were: the desire for surgical treatment (111/3.601), pessary extrusion (385/3.601), and pain/discomfort (163/3.601). CONCLUSION: Obese, previously reconstructive pelvic surgery, advanced prolapse are at risk for unsuccessful pessary fitting. Pain is the most quoted reason for discontinuation. These pooled data may help clinicians to identify patients that may not succeed in their attempt for pessary treatment.

Efficacy of Fractional CO2 Laser, Promestriene, and Vaginal Lubricant in the Treatment of Urinary Symptoms in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Evaluating the efficacy of the fractional CO2 laser, promestriene, and vaginal lubricant to treat urinary symptoms in women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a randomized clinical trial with 72 postmenopausal women aged 50 years or older. The participants were randomized to one intervention each in three treatment groups fractional CO2 laser, promestriene, and vaginal lubricant. Urinary symptoms were assessed prior to treatment and 2 weeks after treatment completion using validated questionnaires, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ-UI SF), and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Overactive Bladder (ICIQ-OAB). RESULTS: There was a significant reduction in the total ICIQ-UI SF score in the intragroup comparison (baseline vs. week 14) of the CO2 laser group (P = 0.004). This group also showed a statistically significant reduction in nocturia (1.33 ± 0.87 vs. 1.00 ± 0.76, respectively; P = 0.031). In the intergroup comparison after treatment, nocturia in the lubricant group had worsened compared with that of the other two groups (P = 0.002). Regarding the total ICIQ-OAB score, the results of the CO2 laser group were superior to those of the lubricant group in the intergroup comparison (7.76 ± 3.36, P = 0.020; analysis of variance P = 0.038). CONCLUSION: The results were significantly different between the intravaginal fractional CO2 laser and topical estrogen groups for treating urinary symptoms related to the genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Further controlled and randomized studies are needed. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.