Women's Sexual and Reproductive Concerns, Perspectives, and Strategies, Including Perspectives About Pelvic Floor Muscles, as Perceived by Sexually Active College Women

Abstract

Health issues such as pelvic floor muscle (PFM) dysfunction can impact the wellbeing of young women, detrimentally altering sexual and urinary function that can continue throughout their lives (Rosenbaum & Owens, 2008). About 1/3 of women are affected by PFM dysfunction post childbirth. This qualitative study aimed to explore college aged women’s concerns regarding their sexual and reproductive health, including pelvic floor muscle function. Participants identified and instituted behaviors to prevent STIs and pregnancy and expressed concerns about cancer, dyspareunia, and fertility. Their knowledge about PFM and PFM strengthening exercises was limited, often self-taught, associated with a lack of confidence, linked to a desire to enhance their sexuality, and associated with little knowledge about childbirth-related issues for which PFM strengthening could be helpful to them. The women recommended increasing college women’s awareness of PFMs and teaching PFM strengthening. Insights gained from this study will benefit health educators who develop programs to educate college aged women about sexuality and reproductive health, including the role of pelvic floor muscles in sexual response and the strategies young women can institute now to help prevent pelvic floor dysfunction later.