Effects of electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback-guided pelvic floor muscle training on postpartum stress urinary incontinence

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the efficacy of electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback-guided pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on postpartum stress urinary incontinence (PSUI). Methods: One hundred patients with PSUI were selected and randomly divided into an observation group and control group, according to different treatment options. Patients in the observation group received EMG biofeedback-guided pelvic floor muscle training, while those in the control group underwent regular Kegel exercises, specific for PSUI. Follow-ups were initiated 1 month after treatment and continued for 6 months. Changes in indicators of recovery of pelvic muscle contractions were compared, including TOV, VTV, VF, LT, and changes in the potential of pelvic floor muscles. The response rate of therapy was also recorded for both groups. Results: In the observation group, VTV, TOV, and LT, after treatment, were significantly lower than those in the control group (p<0.05). Following treatment, VTV, TOV, and LT, in both groups, were significantly decreased compared to levels before treatment (p<0.05). Following treatment, VF and the potential in pelvic floor muscles in the observation group were higher than those in the control group (p<0.05). Intragroup comparisons showed that VF and potential of the pelvic floor muscles, in both groups, increased significantly compared to levels before treatment (p<0.05). Furthermore, the response rate in the observation group was significantly higher than in the control group (p<0.001). Conclusion: Compared to Kegel exercises, pelvic floor rehabilitation by PFMT shows promising efficacy for PSUI patients by enhancing contractions of pelvic floor muscles, with significant improvement in symptoms of urinary incontinence. Thus, it should be considered for clinical practice.