Strengths of pelvic floor muscles in women with multiple sclerosis and its relationship with urinary incontinence and quality of life

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating autoimmune disease that mostly affects women.ObjectivesIn this study we evaluated the relationship of pelvic muscle strengths with urinary incontinence and quality of life in women with MS.Materials and methodsIn this cross-sectional study 87 women with MS were recruited. Data collected using a demographic questionnaire, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF), and Quality of Life Questionnaire (QOL-SF-36). A perineometer was used to measure the strengths of pelvic muscle. Data analyzed using Pearson correlation test, and multiple linear regression tests.ResultsThere was a positive correlation between pelvic muscle strengths with all domains of quality of life except for body pain and role limitations due to emotional problems. A significant inverse correlation was found between urinary incontinence and all domains of quality of life except for body pain. Also, an inverse correlation was found between muscle strength and urinary incontinence (r = −0.838, p