Snyder K, Mollard E, Bargstadt-Wilson K, Peterson J. “We don’t talk about it enough”: Perceptions of pelvic health among postpartum women in rural communities.
WOMEN'S HEALTH 2022;
18:17455057221122584. [PMID:
36148940 PMCID:
PMC9510969 DOI:
10.1177/17455057221122584]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose:
A descriptive qualitative study was conducted to explore perceptions and
experiences related to pelvic health in the postpartum period among a cohort
of women residing in communities with less than 50,000 residents.
Methods:
A semi-structured interview approach guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior
was used. Postpartum individuals (<6 months since childbirth) were
interviewed in the fall/winter of 2021–2022.
Results:
Specific to individuals’ attitudes toward pelvic health, women viewed Kegels
as an important component to improving pelvic health but had a negative
attitude toward their own pelvic health, often identifying their pelvic
floor as “weak.” The subjective norms influencing a woman’s perception were
typically, a positive influence by family/friends and the Internet, although
the Internet was viewed as an insufficient resource. Healthcare providers
were noted as an infrequent and ineffective resource for education and
support in the postpartum period. Finally, women’s perceived behavioral
control to manage their pelvic health was influenced by limited knowledge of
pelvic health and time, and a desire for more education from their primary
care provider and geographical barriers.
Conclusion:
Innovative strategies are needed to support postpartum women’s pelvic health
within rural communities. Primary care providers may benefit from the
development of “quick tips” by specialists, such as women’s health physical
therapists, to optimize pelvic health discussions with their postpartum
patients. Education interventions targeted toward postpartum women in rural
communities should focus on strategies that address the geographic barriers
identified while still providing individualized care. Options, such as
webinars, telehealth, and text message interventions, could be
considered.
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