High-impact aerobics programme supplemented by pelvic floor muscle training does not impair the function of pelvic floor muscles in active nulliparous women

Abstract

Background: We aimed to test the hypothesis that high-impact aerobics programme, combined with pelvic floor muscle training does not impair pelvic floor muscle function in young active women. Methods: A randomized control trial was conducted among active nulliparous, sport university students (age 23 ± 3 years, mean ± SD). Experimental group (n = 13) attended high-impact aerobics programme, supplemented by pelvic floor muscle training with one biofeedback session, for 6 weeks. The control group (n = 19) did not get any intervention. Before and after the experiment, we assessed pelvic floor muscle function in both groups with surface electromyography using vaginal probes. In both groups, we assessed the participants' quality of life related to pelvic floor functions with the Incontinence Impact Questionnaires. Results: We recorded no impairments in neuromuscular activity of pelvic floor muscles and in quality of life in women regularly performing high-impact aerobics. What is even more positive, after 6 weeks, experimental group presented better skills both in contracting and relaxing their pelvic floor muscles, although the pre-post intervention EMG change was not statistically significant. All participants maintained good quality of life related to pelvic floor functions. Conclusions: High-impact aerobics, supplemented by pelvic floor muscle training can be recommended for active nulliparas.