Abstract
Background:
Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is commonly reported among patients with gynecological cancer. The aim of this scoping review is to summarize the literature of interventions other than exclusive pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) for management of PFD.
Methods:
A systematic search was conducted in February 2023, using 3 databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL). Quantitative studies that delivered rehabilitation intervention/s (eg, global strength training alone, global strength training with PFMT) that aimed to manage PFD (including urinary/fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual function) among gynecological cancer survivors were included.
Results:
From 346 studies identified, 2 studies met inclusion criteria and were included in synthesis. One study utilized Pilates movements (1 exercise included a combined pelvic floor contraction), while the second study prescribed 150 minutes of exercise per week. Both studies showed that movement/exercise-based interventions, not limited to PFMT, are effective in improving PFD symptoms, specifically sexual function/interest and bladder function.
Conclusions:
Research outside the gynecological cancer cohort shows that rehabilitation interventions, other than exclusive PFMT, may be equally effective as PFMT. Despite this, research into the management of PFD among patients with gynecological cancer is scarce and of poor quality and is currently dominated by traditional PFMT research. Future studies should investigate whole-body exercise interventions (eg, global strengthening) with/without PFMT in comparison with traditional PFMT to determine the most effective intervention for PFD. An individualized intervention delivered by an exercise professional using validated and reliable outcome measures, progressive overload, clear documentation of exercise type, and intervention adherence should be utilized.