Ultrasound Imaging of Core Muscles Activity in Multiparous Women With Vaginal Laxity: A Cross-Sectional Study

Ultrasound Imaging of Core Muscles Activity in Multiparous Women With Vaginal Laxity: A Cross-Sectional Study

This study aims to compare the ultrasound imaging of core muscles activity in multiparous women with vaginal laxity versus normal controls.

Vaginal laxity is characterized by the loss of elasticity in the vaginal structure and vaginal looseness, which leads to symptoms including sexual dysfunction, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain, and urinary incontinence. It is a symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction. Its mechanisms are not well understood and it is usually worse in women with multiparity.

Since the pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) are one of the core muscles that play a critical role in lumbopelvic stability, their impairment may affect the lumbopelvic area and the activity of other core muscles, like the transverse abdominis, lumbar multifidus, and diaphragm. Therefore, this study aims to compare the ultrasound imaging of core muscles activity in multiparous women with vaginal laxity versus normal controls.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. The participants' age range from 35 to 45 years
2. their body mass index is 25-30 kg/m2,
3. The number of normal deliveries ≤ three times,
4. having a regular menstruation.
5. They participate in the study after at least two years from their last delivery.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Prior history of disc prolapse and sacroiliac joints, symphysis pubic joint as well as lower limb problems, leg length discrepancy, and diastasis recti.
2. Surgery related to the spine, abdomen or pelvis.
3. Genital prolapse, urinary tract infection, and intrauterine device.
4. Diabetes, chest and/or cardiac disease.
5. Using any drugs for sexual dysfunction.