Pelvic floor dysfunction in gynecologic cancer survivors

Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2023 Sep:288:108-113. doi: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.07.010. Epub 2023 Jul 24.

Abstract

Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a common complication in gynecologic cancer survivors (GCS) and is now a worldwide medical and public health problem because of its great impact on the quality of life of GCS. PFD after comprehensive gynecologic cancer treatment is mainly reflected in bladder function, rectal function, sexual dysfunction and pelvic organ prolapse (POP), of which different types of gynecologic cancer correspond to different disease incidence. The prevention strategies of PFD after comprehensive gynecologic cancer treatment mainly included surgical treatment, physical therapy and behavioral guidance, etc. At present, most of them still focus on physical therapy, mostly using Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT) and multi-modal PFMT treatment of biofeedback combined with electrical stimulation, which can reduce the possibility of PFD after surgery in GCS to some extent. This article reviews the clinical manifestations, causes and current research progress of prevention and treatment methods of PFD after comprehensive treatment for GCS.

Keywords: Gynecologic cancer; Pelvic floor dysfunction; Prevention; Urinary incontinence.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cancer Survivors*
  • Exercise Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms*
  • Pelvic Floor
  • Pelvic Floor Disorders* / epidemiology
  • Pelvic Floor Disorders* / etiology
  • Pelvic Floor Disorders* / therapy
  • Pelvic Organ Prolapse* / complications
  • Pelvic Organ Prolapse* / surgery
  • Quality of Life
  • Urinary Incontinence* / epidemiology
  • Urinary Incontinence* / etiology
  • Urinary Incontinence* / therapy