EFFECT OF KEGEL’S EXERCISES ON POSTPARTUM URINARY INCONTINENCE AND QUALITY OF LIFE: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Background: Postpartum urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent but underrecognized complication following vaginal delivery, with significant implications for maternal quality of life. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), or Kegel’s exercises, is an evidence-based, non-invasive intervention that may reduce the incidence and severity of UI when implemented early.

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of Kegel’s exercises in preventing postpartum urinary incontinence and reducing urinary symptom severity among women who had undergone normal vaginal delivery.

Methods:This prospective, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital in South India. A total of 69 postnatal women aged 18–35 years were randomized into two groups within 48 hours of delivery. The intervention group (n = 35) received supervised instruction on PFMT with printed guides and weekly follow-up, while the control group (n = 34) received standard postnatal care. The primary outcome was urinary symptom severity measured by the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF) at 6 weeks postpartum. The secondary outcome was the incidence of self-reported UI at follow-up.

Results: Baseline demographic and clinical variables were comparable between groups. At 6 weeks postpartum, the intervention group demonstrated significantly lower mean ICIQ-UI SF scores compared to controls (0.6 ± 0.5 vs. 1.8 ± 1.0; p < 0.001). The incidence of UI was also significantly lower in the intervention group (11.4%) than in the control group (44.1%) (p = 0.002). Within-group analysis in the intervention arm showed a significant reduction in mean symptom scores from baseline to follow-up (p = 0.001).

Conclusion: Early initiation and consistent performance of Kegel’s exercises significantly reduce the severity and incidence of postpartum urinary incontinence. Given its simplicity, safety, and cost-effectiveness, PFMT should be routinely incorporated into postnatal care protocols. Further research is needed to explore long-term adherence and outcomes beyond six weeks postpartum.