Influence of Occupational Factors on the Pelvic Floor and Quality of Life of Nurses and Physical Therapists
Keywords:
pelvic floor, occupational risk, nurses, rehabilitation specialistsAbstract
Introduction: Pelvic floor dysfunctions present occupational risk factors in professions such as nursing and rehabilitation that can impair health-related quality of life.
Objective: To determine the influence of occupational risk factors on the predisposition to develop pelvic floor dysfunctions in nurses and physical therapists, as well as their effect on their health-related quality of life.
Methods: An exploratory, descriptive, observational, and prospective study was conducted with 82 nurses and physical therapists from three Cuban health institutions (January-September 2024). Validated questionnaires were administered to measure pelvic floor discomfort and its impact, as well as sexual function. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation were used.
Results: 70.7% were between 40 and 59 years old. 75.5% of participants were overweight. Mild symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction were revealed (69.5%), with moderate/severe impact on quality of life (18.3%) and significant sexual dysfunction (37.8%). Significant correlations were found between body mass index and dyspareunia (r = -0.22; p = 0.044), body mass index and sexual dysfunction (r = -0.30; p = 0.006), and between prolonged standing and multiple pelvic floor dysfunctions (r = 0.22; p = 0.043).
Conclusions: Pelvic floor dysfunctions constitute a relevant occupational health problem in nursing and rehabilitation. The main risk factors include unfavorable ergonomic conditions, exposure to lifting heavy loads, obesity, and constipation. Pelvic floor dysfunction significantly impacts quality of life, with the greatest repercussions on urinary function and sexual well-being.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Tania Mercedes Tanús Rodríguez, Neysa Margarita Pérez Rodríguez, Haymeé Rodríguez Lara, María Alejandra Hernández Aguilar
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