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Ethnic differences in pelvic floor muscle strength and endurance in South African women

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Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

Limited knowledge exists about pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function in ethnic groups. The aim of this study was to compare PFM strength and endurance in a group of black, white and mixed-race women.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. Maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) and endurance were measured with a perineometer and vaginal balloon sensor. Two sets of three MVC of the PFM were recorded; resting phase was 5 min. Demographic variables and factors associated with PFM strength were assessed.

Results

A total of 122 nulliparous black (n = 44), white (n = 44) and mixed-race (n = 34) students participated. PFM of black women were stronger than that of white (p = 0.02) or mixed-race (p < 0.01) women. The MVC of PFM in black women decreased (p = 0.02) between the first and second set of contractions.

Conclusions

Ethnic differences were found. Further clinical studies are needed to confirm an association between PFM function and pelvic floor disorders.

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Acknowledgments

Prof. Martin Kidd, Centre for Statistical Consultation Stellenbosch University.

Conflicts of interest

None.

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Author notes

  1. Gunter Rienhardt

    Present address: Urogynaecology Unit, Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton, UK

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Physiotherapy Division, Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 19063, Cape Town, South Africa

    Ina van der Walt & Susan Hanekom

  2. Norwegian School of Sport Sciences, Department of Sports Medicine, Oslo, Norway

    Kari Bø

  3. Urogynaecology Unit, Tygerberg Hospital and Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa

    Gunter Rienhardt

Authors
  1. Ina van der Walt
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  2. Kari Bø
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  3. Susan Hanekom
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  4. Gunter Rienhardt
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Susan Hanekom.

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van der Walt, I., Bø, K., Hanekom, S. et al. Ethnic differences in pelvic floor muscle strength and endurance in South African women. Int Urogynecol J 25, 799–805 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-013-2290-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-013-2290-9

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