Awareness of Physical Therapy Exercises and Pelvic Floor Muscles Weakness in the Postpartum Females in Karachi

Abstract

Background: Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a prevalent and frequently underdiagnosed condition affecting postpartum women, leading to urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and compromised quality of life. Despite the proven benefits of physical therapy for prevention and management, awareness and utilization remain low, particularly in low-resource settings. Objective: To assess the awareness of physical therapy exercises and the prevalence of pelvic floor muscle weakness among postpartum females in Karachi, with analysis of associated demographic and obstetric risk factors. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study recruited 169 postpartum women aged 20–45 years from gynecological departments of hospitals and maternity centers in Karachi between August 2024 and January 2025. Participants completed validated questionnaires (PFIQ-7 and PFBQ) assessing symptom burden and awareness. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26, with group comparisons and multivariate analyses exploring associations by age, parity, and delivery mode. Results: The majority of participants (55.6%) reported very low impact of PFD symptoms; however, women with higher parity (≥5 pregnancies) and those with vaginal deliveries exhibited significantly greater symptom burden (mean PFIQ-7 scores: high gravida 52 vs. low gravida 23, p < 0.05). Urinary symptoms were most common, and only a minority demonstrated adequate awareness or engagement in physical therapy. Conclusion: Parity and vaginal delivery are major risk factors for postpartum pelvic floor dysfunction in Karachi. Despite high prevalence, awareness and uptake of physical therapy interventions remain insufficient. Targeted education, systematic screening, and access to postpartum rehabilitation are essential for improving women’s pelvic health outcomes.