Can pelvic floor muscle training prevent perineal laceration? A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is reportedly able to reduce risk factors for perineal trauma. However, the effects of these exercises on perineal injuries are unclear. Objective To investigate the effectiveness of PFMT in the prevention of perineal laceration. Search strategy Searches were conducted in PubMed/Medline, LILACS, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CINAHL. For search strategies, we combined the terms PFMT, tear, laceration, perineum, and delivery. Selection criteria We included randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of PFMT for the prevention of perineal laceration during vaginal delivery. There were no period or language limitations. Data collection and analysis We conducted data extraction and synthesis. We performed a quality appraisal, a qualitative synthesis, and for meta-analysis we used the Software R. Main results Nine studies were included. In most studies, PFMT was performed daily, with a wide range of the number of contractions and sustainability. Prevalence of perineal laceration had a wide range and information on laceration degree was limited. Meta-analysis showed that PFMT was not effective to prevent perineal laceration. Conclusion Pelvic floor muscle training does not prevent perineal laceration. Further studies are needed to investigate different protocols and interventions.