IMPACT OF PELVIC FLOOR SYMPTOMS ON QUALITY OF LIFE OF WOMEN AFTER STROKE

Abstract

This article aimed to characterize the urinary and anorectal functions of the pelvic floor and correlate them with quality of life in women after stroke. Methodology: Cross-sectional study, with women diagnosed with stroke interviewed with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Short Form, Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory, Jorge Wexner Incontinence Scale and the Short Form Health Survey 36-item. Results: The sample included 34 women after stroke. There was a prevalence of 58.82% of urinary incontinence and 32.35% of anal incontinence. The most evident dysfunctions were in the bladder and bowel domains, negatively affecting quality of life in functional, emotional and social aspects. Urinary incontinence had a strong correlation with worsening quality of life in the physical and social domains, while anal incontinence had a moderate impact on emotional and social aspects. Conclusion: Urinary and anal incontinence were associated with a worse quality of life in post-stroke women.