A Comparison of Home-Based Kegel Exercises Versus Clinic-Based Rehabilitation in Women With Urinary Incontinence in the Tabuk Region: A Randomized Controlled Trial

A Comparison of Home-Based Kegel Exercises Versus Clinic-Based Rehabilitation in Women With Urinary Incontinence in the Tabuk Region: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common condition among women that significantly affects physical health, emotional well-being, social participation, and overall quality of life. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is widely recommended as the first-line conservative treatment for urinary incontinence. While clinic-based rehabilitation provides direct supervision by healthcare professionals, home-based Kegel exercise programs offer greater convenience and accessibility. However, limited evidence exists regarding the comparative effectiveness of these approaches among women in Saudi Arabia.

Aim The study aims to compare the effectiveness of home-based Kegel exercises and clinic-based rehabilitation programs in improving pelvic floor muscle strength, reducing urinary incontinence symptoms, and enhancing quality of life among women with urinary incontinence in the Tabuk region.

Objectives

1. To evaluate the effectiveness of home-based Kegel exercises in women with urinary incontinence.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of clinic-based pelvic floor rehabilitation.
3. To compare outcomes between both intervention approaches.
4. To compare the outcomes of both interventions regarding pelvic floor muscle strength, urinary leakage, and quality of life.
5. To assess participants' adherence to the prescribed exercise programs. Methodology

This study will employ a randomized controlled trial (RCT) design. Eligible women diagnosed with urinary incontinence will be recruited from the Maternity and Children Hospital, Tabuk. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:

• Group A: Home-based Kegel exercise program.
• Group B: Supervised clinic-based pelvic floor rehabilitation program. Both interventions will be conducted over a 12-week period. Outcome Measures

The effectiveness of the interventions will be evaluated using:

• Perineometer measurements to assess pelvic floor muscle strength.
• Pad Test to assess urinary leakage severity.
• King's Health Questionnaire (KHQ) to evaluate quality of life.
• Adherence records to monitor compliance with the exercise program. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, week 8, and week 12. Data Analysis Data will be analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, Chi-square tests, and repeated-measures ANOVA will be used to compare outcomes between groups. Statistical significance will be set at p < 0.05.

Ethical Considerations Ethical approval will be obtained prior to study commencement. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. Participation will be voluntary, confidentiality will be maintained, and participants will have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without affecting their healthcare services.

Expected Outcomes The study is expected to demonstrate improvements in pelvic floor muscle strength, urinary continence, and quality of life in both groups. The findings will provide evidence regarding whether home-based Kegel exercises can achieve outcomes comparable to supervised clinic-based rehabilitation, thereby informing future physiotherapy practice and healthcare policy.

Significance This research will contribute to the growing body of evidence on pelvic floor rehabilitation and may support the implementation of accessible, cost-effective, and evidence-based treatment options for women with urinary incontinence in Tabuk region in Saudi Arabia. The results may also guide clinicians and healthcare decision-makers in optimizing rehabilitation services and improving patient outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female participants aged 20-50 years.
• Diagnosed with urinary incontinence.
• Able to understand study instructions.
• Willing to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Delivery within the previous 3 months.
• Gynecological surgery during the previous 3 months.
• Lower urinary tract surgery during the previous 3 months.
• Postmenopausal women.
• Contraindications to pelvic floor muscle training.