Introduction and hypothesis: This pilot study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.
Methods: Thirty-seven women with stage II prolapse were randomized to either the intervention group (n = 21) or the control group (n = 16). The evaluation included assessments of pelvic floor muscle function and surface electromyography at baseline and post 14 weeks of treatment. The severity of prolapse was quantified by the POP-Q method and symptoms by P-QoL questionnaire.
Results: The intervention group showed significantly greater anatomic improvements in the anterior and posterior vaginal wall prolapses than did the control group (P < 0.001 and 0.025, respectively) and a decrease of symptoms. In addition, the intervention group had greater improvements in muscle strength (P < 0.001), endurance (P < 0.001), and electromyography parameters (P = 0.008) compared to the control group.
Conclusions: PFMT is effective in the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse.