Women’s Experience of Accessing Information, Diagnosis and Treatment of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction in the Postnatal Period in New Zealand—A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

Aim This study aims to explore the experiences of women with pelvic floor dysfunction within the postnatal period (1 year after birth), specifically their experience in accessing information, diagnosis and treatment for their symptoms.

Methods Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with women during their postnatal period and key informant health professionals involved in perinatal healthcare. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results Postnatal women participants reported a very poor experience of accessing information, diagnosis and treatment of their pelvic floor symptoms in the year after giving birth. Women’s symptoms were normalised or dismissed, with multiple other barriers in place to accessing the appropriate treatment. Key informants acknowledged the societal and health system barriers to postnatal pelvic floor dysfunction treatment and rehabilitation.

Conclusion The study highlights significant, avoidable gaps in perinatal healthcare provision, which is based on a specialised model of care, not suitable for a highly prevalent health issue for women. A specific maternal postnatal primary care check, in addition to a national pelvic floor dysfunction clinical guideline with appropriate training of perinatal health professionals, is likely to significantly improve women’s experience of pelvic floor dysfunction in the postnatal period.