Changing Self-Perceptions and Self-Management of Urinary Incontinence with Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy and Social Support: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

<b><i>Purpose:</i></b> The aim of this study was to explore how social support during a pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) programme, performed in a group or individually, influences the perceptions of older women with urinary incontinence (UI) regarding their condition and self-management. <b><i>Method:</i></b> This qualitative study was conducted with a subset of participants (<i>n</i> = 15), who had completed a large randomized controlled trial (RCT) on PFMT for UI. Incontinent older women participated in individual semi-structured interviews about their self-perceptions, self-management, and social support. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed and content analysis was conducted. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Four inter-related categories emerged describing how social support positively influenced UI self-perceptions and self-management. These four categories were: (1) point of entry, (2) safe space, (3) concealment to disclosure, and (4) change in perspective. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Social support within a PFMT programme helps women with UI improve their UI self-perception and self-management. The PFMT programme itself can also improve seeking of social supports for women with UI.