Learning outcomes of a group behavioral modification program to prevent urinary incontinence

• Published in: International Urogynecology Journal 2005-12, Vol.16 (6), p.441-446
• Main Authors: Sampselle, Carolyn M., Messer, Kassandra L., Seng, Julia S., Raghunathan, T. E., Hines, Sandra H., Diokno, Ananias C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Urinary incontinence
• ISSN: 0937-3462; 1433-3023
• DOI: 10.1007/s00192-005-1284-7

This study describes acquisition of knowledge and motor skill in bladder training (BT) and pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and adherence following a behavioral modification program (BMP). Essentially continent (0-5 episodes in past year) community-dwelling older women (n=359) were randomized to treatment (n=164), a 2-h group education session supplemented by one brief individualized session of approximately 10 min, or control (n=195), no instruction, and followed for 12 months. Knowledge, motor skill, and adherence to the BMP were documented. Changes in pelvic muscle function and voiding interval were used to validate self-reported adherence. Following group instruction, mean BT and PFMT knowledge was 90 and 86%, respectively; 68% demonstrated correct PFMT technique without additional instruction, 29% required brief instruction, and 3% were unable to learn PFMT technique. Adherence ranged from 63 to 82% for PFMT and 58 to 67% for BT. Group instruction supplemented with brief individual instruction as needed is an effective teaching method for BT and PFMT.[PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]