Prevalence Of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction In Female Athletes – Narrative Review

Abstract

Purpose of the review: This narrative review aims to evaluate the prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction in female athletes.

Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, PEDro, Cochrane library, and Google Scholar databases using the keywords women, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor symptoms, urinary incontinence, sports, athletes. randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and systematic reviews were included.

Results: Pelvic floor dysfunction is common in female athletes, and urinary incontinence is the most reported symptom. The urinary incontinence prevalence varies widely, from about 23% to over 60%, this variation is due to the type of sport and duration of sports practice.

Conclusion: Female athletes reported higher prevalence of urinary incontinence than non-athletes, especially in high-impact, elite, or long-term training.