​​​​​Research Title :Hidden sorrows and poor medical awareness about urinary incontinence in Jordan: A mixed methods study

Authors :Sami Elmahgoub, Aseel Aburub, Maya Alawneh, Raghda Elbawab, Susan Hunter, Hanan Khalil, Mohammad Darabseh ​

Abstract :Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) during pregnancy is very common. Management of UI is mainly through practicing pelvic floor exercises. However, little is known about the current levels of practice among Jordanian physiotherapists regarding pelvic floor exercises to manage urinary incontinence. Similarly, little is known about Jordanian mothers' knowledge and practice of pelvic floor exercises during and after pregnancy. This study aims to: 1) explore the knowledge of Jordanian women about pelvic floor exercises; and 2) explore the knowledge and practice of Jordanian physiotherapists regarding pelvic floor exercises for people with UI. Methods: A cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted to achieve the study goals, utilizing an online survey questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Inclusion criteria were: Jordanian mothers who are pregnant or within the first 6 months post-delivery, and Jordanian physiotherapists who hold physiotherapy qualifications from Jordanian universities were interviewed. Results: In total, 388 participating Jordanian mothers submitted the online questionnaire. Around 63% of participants did not know anything about pelvic floor exercises, and 72% of participants did not have any medical education regarding pelvic floor exercises. Participants who were aware of pelvic floor exercises (38%) reported that they obtained information from YouTube or other social media (n=110). Results of the interviews with physiotherapists revealed a lack of knowledge, lack of skills, and lack of training among Jordanian physiotherapists regarding the management of UI. Conclusions: This study highlighted the gap in medical education among Jordanian mothers about pelvic floor exercises and the management of UI in Jordan. Additionally, the results of this study indicate that Jordanian physiotherapists need training and courses in the physiotherapy management of UI

Keywords :Exercise, Urinary incontinence, Women’s health, Physical therapy, Pelvic floor muscles, Postpartum

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