Characterizing Pelvic Floor Muscle Function and Morphometry in Survivors of Gynecological Cancer Who Have Dyspareunia: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Objective More than one-half of gynecological cancer survivors are affected by pain during sexual intercourse, also known as dyspareunia. Oncological treatments may result in pelvic floor muscle (PFM) alterations, which suspected to play a key role However, our knowledge, no study has investigated PFM function and morphometry this population. The aim the was characterize compare between with dyspareunia asymptomatic women. Methods Twenty-four 32 women history total hysterectomy but without (asymptomatic women) participated comparative cross-sectional study. passive forces (tone), flexibility, stiffness, maximal strength, coordination, endurance were assessed an intra-vaginal dynamometric speculum. Bladder neck position, levator plate angle, anorectal hiatal dimensions measured at rest on contraction 3D/4D transperineal ultrasound imaging. Results Compared women, showed heightened tone, lower higher coordination endurance. At rest, they had smaller angle dimensions, indicating tone. They presented fewer changes from for suggesting elevated tone or altered contractile properties. Conclusions Gynecological present morphometry. This research therefore provides better understanding underlying mechanisms survivors. Impact Our confirms alterations These findings support rationale developing assessing efficacy physical therapy targeting