This study explores the differences in pelvic floor muscle (PFM) activity in postpartum women who engaged in running training during pregnancy compared to those who did not. Utilizing real-time ultrasound, we assess the extent of PFM activity to determine the potential impacts of prenatal running on postpartum pelvic health.
12 postpartum women were recruited and divided into two groups: those who engaged in regular running during pregnancy (n=7) and those who did not (n=5). To address the research question, transabdominal ultrasound measurements of the pelvic floor were conducted in the laboratory. Measurements were taken in a supine position, both at rest and during a maximally held isometric contraction. The difference between the two measurements was analysed to obtain information about the cranio-caudal displacement of the pelvic floor. Cranio-caudal displacement and relevant parameters related to running behaviour were statistically analysed for group differences.
Measurements of pelvic floor displacement showed a caudal movement when being activated in women who ran, while non-running women exhibited a cranial movement. The magnitude of displacement was similar in both groups on average. Observed differences were not statistically significant. The running women reported experiencing less urinary incontinence during running but had a higher frequency of prolapse symptoms. However, they returned to running 4 weeks earlier and already had a threefold higher weekly training volume at the time of measurement.
The results do not allow clear conclusions regarding the effect of running training during pregnancy on pelvic floor activity in the postpartum period. Running women demonstrated a comparatively less favourable activation of pelvic floor muscles in the measurements, often associated with pelvic floor symptoms in the literature. Women who ran postpartum reported a higher prevalence of prolapse symptoms during running, alongside reduced incontinence symptoms. The specific activation pattern of the pelvic floor during running and the associated force loads on the structures could be potential explanations for the results. Interpretation of the data should be validated through measurements on larger groups of women, preferably over the whole duration of pregnancy and into the postpartum period. Measurements during running activities might provide even more advanced insights into the topic.
Engaging in running during pregnancy appears to have inconsistent influence on postpartum pelvic floor muscle activity. Real-time ultrasound proved to be an effective tool for assessing PFM function in postpartum women. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term impacts of prenatal running on pelvic health and to develop specific exercise recommendations for pregnant women.
postpartum women
running training
