In a nutshell
This study looked at the factors that made a mobile app successful in helping women with stress urinary incontinence. The study found that app-based treatment is useful in women interested in and who have high expectations of using the app.
Some background
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common problem among women. It may cause leakage of urine when straining. The use of daily mobile-apps is increasing. A mobile app which includes pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) and lifestyle advice may be useful for SUI. It is important to find out what factors make a mobile app to treat SUI successful.
Methods & findings
61 patients who used the app were assessed. The app included information on SUI and PFMT, had a reminder function for performing PFMT, and offered lifestyle advice. Questionnaires were filled out about symptoms, quality of life and PFMT. This was repeated after 3 months.
34 (55.7%) patients reported that their condition was much or very much better after follow-up. Three factors were associated with success of the mobile-app. These included higher expectations for the app, weight control, and self-reported improvement in PFMT.
The bottom line
The study concluded that app-based treatments are more successful in women who engage with the app and commit to the PFMT.
The fine print
The study had a small sample size and examined existing data from another study.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about using an app to help with your pelvic floor exercises for SUI.
Published By :
International urogynecology journal
Date :
Dec 08, 2017
