Prevalence of pelvic floor disorders, its severity, and knowledge among postpartum women: A cross-sectional study

Introduction: Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) are multifaceted health issues affecting a substantial number of postpartum women worldwide. It involves conditions such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and colorectal-anal distress, all of which can significantly impact an individual's overall well-being and quality of life. To determine the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders, their severity, and knowledge among postpartum women Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Lahore Teaching Hospital, The University of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. A sample of 116 participants was recruited using purposive sampling. Women aged 24 to 32 years, up to nine months postpartum, referred by a gynecologist, were included in the study. The dysfunction severity was measured using the pelvic floor disability index, and knowledge was measured by a prolapse incontinence knowledge questionnaire. Results: The average age of females was 27.91±2.55 years, the majority 45(38.8%) had a graduation-level education and 75(64%) experienced cesarean section. Among pelvic floor dysfunction, 42(36%) had urinary incontinence, 38 (33%) had pelvic organ prolapse, and 36 (31%) had colorectal-anal distress. A total of 66(56.9%) postpartum females had mild dysfunction, 87(75%) lacked knowledge about urinary incontinence and 92(79.3%) about pelvic organ prolapse. Conclusion: Urinary incontinence is prevalent among pelvic floor disorders in postpartum women, with a mild degree of severity and the majority of women did not know the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunctions.