false
Catalog
E-Posters
10005_Rapp
10005_Rapp
Back to course
Pdf Summary
Pelvic floor dysfunction, which includes pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary and fecal incontinence, is prevalent in developing countries due to limited healthcare access and traumatic childbirth. However, many patients do not seek medical attention for these conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of pelvic floor dysfunction on patients in underserved communities. <br /><br />During a 2-week medical mission trip to Ghana, a questionnaire on the impact of pelvic floor dysfunction was administered to 23 patients with POP, urinary or fecal incontinence. The most common condition reported was urinary incontinence, followed by mixed POP with incontinence, isolated fecal incontinence, POP, and nocturia. <br /><br />Results showed that 61% of patients reported a negative impact of pelvic floor dysfunction on their life. Difficulty caring for family members was reported by 48% of patients, and difficulty performing work-related activities was reported by 52%. These difficulties occurred several times per week to daily for most patients. The negative impact was mainly due to pain, but embarrassment about symptoms, taking time off work, and traveling to doctors' appointments were also contributing factors. <br /><br />Furthermore, 77% of patients believed that repairing their pelvic floor dysfunction would improve their ability to care for their family or perform their job. <br /><br />These findings highlight the significant impact of pelvic floor dysfunction on patients' lives in developing countries. More research is needed to understand the barriers to seeking treatment for these conditions.
Keywords
pelvic floor dysfunction
pelvic organ prolapse
urinary incontinence
fecal incontinence
underserved communities
medical mission trip
negative impact
family care
work-related activities
barriers to treatment
×
Please select your language
1
English