Pelvic floor function, urinary and fecal incontinence within primiparous adolescents according to the presence of episiotomy: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Objectives: to evaluate the association of episiotomy with pelvic floor function and the occurrence of urinary and fecal incontinence in primiparous adolescents. Methods: a cross-sectional study was conducted with primiparous adolescents aged ten to 19 years, seven and 48 months before data collection. Participants completed a form containing their personal data and the International Consultation on Urinary Incontinence (UI) Short Form, Incontinence Severity Index and the Jorge & Wexner Incontinence Scale. Results: the mean values were statistically significant for the variables analyzed. Lower mean values were obtained for strength, endurance and number of sustained and rapid contractions in the group exposed to episiotomy, compared to the control group. Episiotomy increased the odds of: UI (OR= 15.2; CI95%= 8.1-28.4), UI-related changes in quality of life (OR= 15.9; CI95%= 8.5-30.0), fecal incontinence (OR= 18.5; CI95%= 6.4-5.7) and constipation (OR= 10.8; CI95%= 4.8-24.2) in primiparous adolescents, compared to the control group. Conclusions: episiotomy can negatively influence pelvic floor function and urinary and fecal retention. Professionals working in maternal health care should be aware of and reflect on obstetric practices during childbirth in adolescents.

Keywords

• Adolescent
• Parity
• Episiotomy
• Fecal incontinence
• Urinary incontinence