The efficacy of pelvic floor muscle training in gynecological cancer survivors: A pilot study

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Principal Investigator:

Jessica McAlpine (Surgical Oncologist, BCCA)

Kristin Campbell

Purpose

The aim of the proposed pilot study is to test the feasibility of a pelvic floor muscular training intervention led by a physiotherapist versus a written education pamphlet (control) on urinary incontinence, quality of life and sexual health in women who report urinary urgency and incontinence following surgery and radiation treatment for gynecological cancer.

You are eligible to participate if you are:

  • Female between ages of 19 and 65
  • Have been treated with surgery and adjuvant treatment including radiation for gynecological cancer within the last four years
  • Have reported urinary urgency or leakage.

 You are ineligible to participate if you are:

  • Have had prior gynecological surgery
  • Diagnosis of a neuromuscular disorder that may impact pelvic floor muscle function
  • Urinary incontinence issues prior to cancer diagnosis
  • Did not have radiation as part of your treatment for gynecological cancer
  • BMI > 35

If you are eligible to participate, the study involves baseline assessment visit, and completion of questionnaires (1 hour). Training intervention group will receive 9 individual, one-on-one, 45-minute sessions. Educational intervention group will receive a 1-page handout on pelvic floor muscle training. Both groups will attend assessmnets at 12 weeks and 24 weeks, and will complete 20 minute questionnaires once a month.

If you are interested in participating, please speak to your oncologist about the study. If you want more information about the study, please contact Catherine Landells at catherine.landells@ubc.ca or 604-827-1914.