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

Rev Bras Enferm. 2018;71(suppl 3):1460-1468. doi: 10.1590/0034-7167-2017-0338.
[Article in English, Portuguese]

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.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Exercise Therapy / methods
  • Exercise Therapy / standards*
  • Humans
  • Postpartum Period*
  • Urinary Incontinence / prevention & control*
  • Urinary Incontinence / rehabilitation*