Telehealth in the rehabilitation of female pelvic floor dysfunction: a systematic literature review
This literature review investigates the effectiveness of telehealth in managing female pelvic floor dysfunction, focusing on outcomes related to urinary symptoms, pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function, and quality of life. Prompted by the increased reliance on remote care during the COVID-19 pandemic, the authors aimed to assess whether telehealth interventions could serve as a viable alternative to traditional face-to-face therapy.
What the Research Shows
- The authors reviewed 705 articles, four of which met the inclusion criteria.
- Two randomized controlled trials compared:
- Telehealth with face-to-face treatment
- Telehealth with a postal-based approach
- The remaining two studies provided follow-up data and cost analyses for telehealth versus postal evaluations.
- Women receiving pelvic floor rehabilitation via telehealth experienced:
- Reduced incontinence episodes and voiding frequency
- Enhanced PFM strength
- Better overall quality of life
- In some cases, telehealth outcomes surpassed those of in-person treatment.
What This Means for Clinical Care
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Telehealth can be a practical and effective mode of delivering pelvic floor therapy.
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May serve as a viable alternative when in-person access is limited.
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Can provide equivalent — and sometimes superior — outcomes compared to face-to-face care.
A Multidisciplinary Approach
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Collaboration between pelvic floor PTs, primary care, and telehealth platforms supports holistic treatment.
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Can increase access for women in rural or underserved areas.
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Aligns with patient-centered goals to improve quality of life and functional outcomes.
- da Mata, K. R. U., Costa, R. C. M., Carbone, É. D. S. M., Gimenez, M. M., Bortolini, M. A. T., Castro, R. A., & Fitz, F. F. (2021). Telehealth in the rehabilitation of female pelvic floor dysfunction: a systematic literature review. International Urogynecology Journal, 32, 249-259.
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