A systematic review of the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of pelvic floor dysfunctions in nurses

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the prevalence, risk factors, and impact of pelvic floor dysfunctions in female nurses.

Design: A systematic review.

Data sources: Searches were conducted in the following five electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, LILACS, SCIELO, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL. There were no period or language limitations.

Review methods: Data extraction and synthesis were conducted and the appraisal of the quality of the studies was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool checklist for prevalence data.

Results: A total of 15 studies were included. The symptoms investigated were lower urinary tract symptoms, including urinary incontinence and its subtypes, sexual dysfunctions, constipation, faecal incontinence, and dual incontinence. Overall, prevalence ranged from 9.9% to 89.6%. Associated factors related to occupational roles were lifting heavy weights and poor bladder habits. Quality of life was significantly worse for nurses with pelvic floor disorders.

Conclusion: Pelvic floor dysfunctions are very common among female nurses, considerably affecting their quality of life. Additional studies are needed to investigate the impact on work productivity, causal relationships with the occupation and the performance of prevention and treatment interventions directed toward this population.

Keywords: lower urinary tract symptoms; nursing; pelvic floor disorders; systematic review.