Immediate effect of abdominal muscle contraction on pelvic floor morphology in postpartum women

Objective: This study aimed to explore the immediate effect of abdominal muscle contraction on the pelvic floor morphology in postpartum women. Methods: This observational cross-sectional repeated-measures study recruited 90 participants who visited the Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital from May 2024 to March 2026. All participants underwent pelvic floor assessments using four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound in seven different positions. Results: 0.006). Conclusion: Drawing-in, head-lift, and flexion of the hips and knees were associated with immediate pelvic organ descent and hiatal area enlargement in this study, with the head-lift2 maneuver showing a relatively higher mechanical loading degree. The simultaneous contraction of the pelvic floor muscles during these maneuvers correlated with an immediate reduction in pelvic organ descent.