Effects of physiotherapy on pelvic function and quality of life in women with urinary incontinence - a systematic review

• Author(s): Matos,Elisabete ; Pires,Telma ; Santos,Fátima ; Pires,Patrícia ; Viana,Sara ; Viana,Rui
• Date: 2025
• Origin: SciELO Portugal
• Subject(s): pelvic floor muscle training; pelvic physiotherapy; quality of life; urinary incontinence
• Document Type: Journal article
• Language: English

Description

Abstract Introduction: In recent years, pelvic floor physiotherapy, namely pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) has shown a high importance in women with urinary incontinence (UI), optimizing pelvic function and quality of life (QoL). Objective: Evaluate the effects of pelvic floor physiotherapy on pelvic function and QoL in women with UI. Methods: Computerized search in the databases Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science, using the combination of keywords: Physiotherapy; Urinary Incontinence; QoL,in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The methodological quality was analysed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. Results: Nineteen articles meeting the eligibility criteria were included with a total of 2253 participants and an arithmetic mean of 8.4/10 on the PEDro scale. PFMT interventions showed positive effects on QoL, as well as in decreasing involuntary urine loss and increasing pelvic floor muscle strength. In addition, PFMT combined with biofeedback, electrotherapy or Pilates training seemed to reveal significant effects. Conclusions: PFMT is an effective treatment for UI in women. PFMT significantly improves QoL in women with UI, a determinant factor for physical, mental, and social conditions.