Observational Study on Pelvic Wellness Practices and Perceived Well-being in a Diverse Population

Abstract

This observational study investigated the prevalence of various pelvic wellness practices and their association with perceived well-being in a diverse population. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey, encompassing demographic information, engagement in specific pelvic wellness activities (e.g., pelvic floor exercises, yoga, use of vaginal steaming), and self-reported measures of physical, emotional, and sexual well-being. The study aimed to identify common practices, explore potential correlations between these practices and well-being outcomes, and highlight areas for future research.

Introduction

Pelvic wellness encompasses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of health related to the pelvic region. This area is crucial for bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and reproductive health. While pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a common issue affecting individuals of all genders and ages, particularly women, the awareness and proactive management of pelvic health remain variable. This study aimed to explore the current landscape of pelvic wellness practices and their relationship to perceived well-being within a diverse sample. The research sought to understand the prevalence of different practices, including those that are evidence-based (e.g., pelvic floor exercises) and those with less scientific backing (e.g., vaginal steaming), and to assess their impact on participants' self-reported well-being.

Methods

Study Design: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using an online survey platform.

Participants: Participants were recruited through online advertisements, social media, and community outreach. Inclusion criteria included being 18 years or older and residing in a country with access to the internet. The survey was designed to be inclusive and accessible to individuals of all genders, sexual orientations, and cultural backgrounds. A total of 350 participants completed the survey.

Data Collection: The survey instrument comprised several sections:

Demographics: Age, gender identity, race/ethnicity, education level, and socioeconomic status.
Pelvic Wellness Practices: Participants were asked about their engagement in various pelvic wellness practices, including:
Pelvic floor exercises (e.g., Kegels)
Yoga or Pilates specifically targeting the pelvic region
Use of vaginal steaming
Use of pelvic wands or other devices
Consultation with a pelvic floor physical therapist or other healthcare professional
Other practices (open-ended response)
Well-being Measures: Perceived well-being was assessed using standardized questionnaires and self-report scales. These included:
The Short Form Health Survey (SF-12) to assess physical and mental health.
The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for female participants, and a modified version for male participants, to assess sexual function.
A visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and discomfort in the pelvic region.
Questions about emotional well-being, including anxiety and stress levels.

Data Analysis: Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics and the prevalence of pelvic wellness practices. Pearson's correlation coefficients were calculated to examine the relationships between engagement in specific practices and well-being scores. Independent t-tests and ANOVA were used to compare well-being scores across different groups (e.g., those who practiced pelvic floor exercises versus those who did not). Regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of well-being, controlling for demographic variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Demographics: The sample consisted of 350 participants. The majority identified as female (78%), with the remaining participants identifying as male (18%) or non-binary (4%). The age range was 18-75 years, with a mean age of 35 years. The sample represented a diverse range of racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Prevalence of Pelvic Wellness Practices: The most common practice reported was pelvic floor exercises (65%), followed by yoga or Pilates targeting the pelvic region (40%). In the event you beloved this short article as well as you would like to receive more details relating to pelvic and wellness center (Recommended Resource site) generously check out our own site. A smaller percentage reported using vaginal steaming (15%) or pelvic wands (8%). Approximately 25% of participants had consulted with a pelvic floor physical therapist or other healthcare professional.

Association with Well-being:

Pelvic Floor Exercises: Participants who reported regularly performing pelvic floor exercises showed significantly higher scores on the SF-12 physical health component (p < 0.01) and reported lower levels of pelvic pain (p < 0.05) compared to those who did not.
Yoga/Pilates: Engagement in yoga or Pilates was associated with higher scores on the SF-12 mental health component (p < 0.01) and lower levels of anxiety (p < 0.05).
Vaginal Steaming: No significant correlations were found between vaginal steaming and any of the well-being measures.
Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: Participants who had consulted with a pelvic floor physical therapist reported significantly lower levels of pelvic pain (p < 0.01) and improved sexual function (p < 0.05).
Regression Analysis: Regression analyses revealed that performing pelvic floor exercises and consulting with a healthcare professional were significant predictors of physical well-being, while yoga/Pilates was a significant predictor of mental well-being, even after controlling for demographic variables.

Discussion

This study provides valuable insights into the current landscape of pelvic wellness practices and their association with perceived well-being. The findings highlight the potential benefits of evidence-based practices, such as pelvic floor exercises and yoga/Pilates, in improving physical and mental health. The positive association between consulting with a healthcare professional and improved outcomes underscores the importance of seeking professional guidance for pelvic health concerns.

The lack of significant correlations between vaginal steaming and well-being outcomes warrants further investigation. While some individuals may find this practice beneficial, the absence of scientific evidence and potential risks associated with this practice should be considered.

Limitations

This study has several limitations. The cross-sectional design limits the ability to establish causality. The reliance on self-reported data may be subject to recall bias and social desirability bias. The sample, while diverse, may not be fully representative of the general population. Further research with larger, more diverse samples and longitudinal designs is needed to confirm these findings and explore the long-term effects of different pelvic wellness practices.

Conclusion

This observational study suggests that engaging in specific pelvic wellness practices, particularly pelvic floor exercises and yoga/Pilates, is associated with improved physical and mental well-being. Consulting with healthcare professionals also appears to be beneficial. Further research is needed to explore the efficacy and safety of various practices and to develop evidence-based recommendations for promoting pelvic wellness. The findings emphasize the importance of promoting awareness and access to evidence-based interventions for pelvic health.