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Bridging Gaps in Pelvic Floor Care: Research, Education, and Connection to Occupational Therapy
No full textContext: Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is increasingly recognized as an under-diagnosed health condition. Despite the high prevalence, many individuals do not receive appropriate screening and care to support pelvic wellness. Occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) are increasingly positioned to address biopsychosocial impacts on pelvic health, yet patient education remains limited. This capstone project aims to strengthen OTP’s contribution to pelvic floor therapy and decrease the gap by strengthening education, assessment practices, and resource availability for both practitioners and patients.
Project Methods This project includes (1) two surveys assessing the prevalence of self-reported PFDs by patients and provider perception, (2) development of a pelvic floor therapy resource guide, and (3) creation of a labor preparation guide for antenatal mothers.
Results: Surveys revealed an increased prevalence of PFDs among patients, despite 90% not receiving pelvic floor therapy. Symptom burden increased with age. Staff estimated an 11-31% prevalence of PFD in patients. The creation of the labor guide and the pelvic floor therapy resource guide provide additional support for both patients and staff.
Limitations: Small sample size, which may be due to voluntary nature of survey and the survey sign explicitly states, “Pelvic Health Survey,” which could have led to self-selection among participants.
Significance of the Findings: This project demonstrates the importance of improved education on pelvic wellness and knowledge of pelvic floor therapy. Increased access and knowledge will support patients in the long term and reduce future symptom burden.https://www.exhibit.xavier.edu/ot_capstone/1012/thumbnail.jp
