Test‐retest reliability of the different dynamometric variables used to evaluate pelvic floor musculature during the menstrual cycle

Abstract

Time and contraction force parameters of the PFM are not influenced by hormonal alterations that occur during the menstrual cycle. The impulse of contraction was the only variable to demonstrate a significant difference between the first and second week of the data collection protocol. The baseline, maximum strength value, impulse of contraction, and average contraction force variables presented good to excellent reproducibility and can be safely used as a method of PFM evaluation.

The state of pelvic floor muscle dynamometry: A scoping review

“…From the 101 records included, 23 PFM dynamometers from 15 research groups were identified. PFM dynamometers were grouped into two categories: clinical PFM dynamometers ( n = 20, from 12 research groups), 7–26 meant for research settings, and personal PFM dynamometers ( n = 3, from three groups), which were commercially available and intended for patient use 27–29 …”

“…‐SUI: Significant lower maximal rate‐of‐force development (rapidity to contract prior to a cough) (t‐test) 17 …”

“…Dynamometers varied in their force sensor number and arrangement. Most used multiple sensors ( n = 11) 7–9,12,14–16,19–22 while some used one force sensor only ( n = 9) 10,11,13,17,18,23–26 . Furthermore, only two reports mentioned the use of differential arrangement of strain gauges, 8,19 which is important to ensure the force is measured independently of its exact site of application on the dynamometer branch 63 .…”

“…Dynamometers varied in their base design, and a higher number of dynamometers were meant to be handheld by the evaluator ( n = 13) 7,8,10–12,14,15,17,18,22–25 . Others were either fixed to a base ( n = 5) 9,19–21,26 or meant to stay in place inside the vaginal canal without falling out ( n = 2) 13,16 .…”

“…Dynamometers also varied in their direction of measurement. Because they were not fixed to a base, 14 dynamometers could potentially measure PFM force in different directions 7–13,16–18,22–25 . Four dynamometers measured in one direction only, 19–21,26 as they were fixed to a base, and two measured in four directions simultaneously 14,15 .…”