Relação entre a função dos músculos do assoalho pélvico, nível de atividade física e preensão manual.

Abstract

Introduction: During the gestational period, various changes occur, including physical, emotional, and biomechanical ones. Particular emphasis is placed on musculoskeletal and pelvic floor changes, which can lead to dysfunctions such as urinary incontinence and dyspareunia. In this context, the importance of physical activity is evident, as it helps prevent and manage many of the common changes that occur during pregnancy. Objectives: Relate thpratce fphysiclhctivity, plvic floor uscl (PFM) stregh,adandgrp sctrengthin low-ice of physical activity, pelvic floor muscle (PFM) strength, and handgrip strength in low-risk pregnant women. Methods: This is a cross-sectional observational study conducted at the Department of Physical Therapy of UFRN, between April and December 2024, with the participation of 69 low-risk pregnant women between 12 and 30 weeks of gestation. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of UFRN (approval number: 4.479.774, CAAE: 38147020.3.0000.5537). A sociodemographic and obstetric assessment form was used to characterize the sample. Pelvic floor muscle contraction strength was assessed using perineometry, while handgrip strength was evaluated using dynamometry. Finally, the level of self-reported physical activity was also assessed. Results: The pregnant women had a mean age of 30.27 ± 4.78 years. Most of them had a higher education level (87%), were in the second trimester of pregnancy (62.3%), and engaged in physical activity (66.7%). In the assessment of pelvic floor muscle strength, the participants had an average value of 34.33 (21.13 – 51.8). It was observed that there was no statistically significant difference between physical activity, pelvic floor muscle strength, and handgrip strength (p = 0.42) . Conclusion: Based on the results presented, it is concluded that there was no relationship between the level of physical activity, handgrip strength, and pelvic floor muscle strength.