E-Posters-10005

10005_Rapp

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