Use of a Mobile Application for Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in Women with Urinary Incontinence: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) significantly impacts women's quality of life, with pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) recognized as a primary conservative treatment. However, adherence to traditional PFMT regimens remains low due to challenges in maintaining motivation and correct technique. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile application for PFMT in women with urinary incontinence compared to traditional PFMT methods. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 32 women aged 30-60 years with diagnosed stress, urge, or mixed urinary incontinence. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group using a mobile app for PFMT or a control group receiving standard PFMT instructions. The 12-week intervention monitored outcomes such as incontinence episode frequency, pelvic floor muscle strength (measured by a perineometer), and quality of life (assessed using the Urogenital Distress Inventory and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire). Results: Post-intervention, the mobile app group showed significant improvements: incontinence episodes reduced by an average of 4.8 episodes, pelvic floor muscle strength increased by 1.5 points, and quality of life scores improved by 12.0 points (all p < 0.001), compared to minimal changes in the control group. Conclusion: The mobile application significantly improved urinary incontinence symptoms, pelvic floor muscle strength, and quality of life, supporting the integration of digital health tools into the management of urinary incontinence.