DELIVERY AND PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION

Abstract

Urinary incontinence, anal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and sexual dysfunction are included in the definition of pelvic floor dysfunction. Pregnancy and childbirth play a major role in the emergence of pelvic floor dysfunction, which is seen in 41%-65% of women worldwide. Studies have suggested that childbirth causes damage to the pelvic floor due to damage to nerves, muscles and connective tissue. Particularly, obstetric factors related to labor, episiotomy, second stage of labor, interventions and lacerations have been suggested to be associated with pelvic floor dysfunction. It is seen that vaginal delivery increases pelvic floor dysfunction, and there are controversial results in studies on cesarean delivery. In this review, the effects of childbirth on the pelvic floor were examined and discussed in the light of current literature.