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KMID : 0358420110540080420
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Korean Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
2011 Volume.54 No. 8 p.420 ~ p.427
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Characteristics of the pelvic floor during pregnancy by 2D and 3D ultrasound
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Hong Hye-Ri
Cho Geum-Joon
Kang Ae-Ra
Jin Hye-Mi
Ouh Yung-Taek
Oh Min-Jeong
Kim Hai-Joong
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Abstract
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Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate morphological characteristics of the pelvic floor in pregnant women using 2- and 3-dimensional (D)-transperineal ultrasound and compare our findings with findings in non-pregnant women.
Methods: This case-control study included 40 nulliparous pregnant women at term and 28 nulliparous, non-pregnant women (age-matched). The 2D- and 3D-transperineal ultrasounds were carried out in the semi-supine position, after voiding, at rest and during the Valsalva maneuver. Various biometric parameters related to characteristics of the pelvic floor were measured.
Results: Satisfactory biometric measurements were obtained in all cases. The mean thickness of the levator ani muscle was significantly greater in pregnant women than in non-pregnant women (P<0.05). The mean levator hiatus angle and transverse diameter of the levator hiatus were significantly lower in pregnant women than in non-pregnant women (P<0.05). The anteroposterior diameter of the levator hiatus was not significantly different between pregnant women and non-pregnant women.
Conclusion: Pregnant women had significantly thicker the levator ani muscles but smaller hiatal areas, as measured by the levator hiatus angle and transverse diameter, than did non-pregnant women. Pregnancy itself may cause morphological changes to the pelvic floor to support the birth canal by closing the lower end of the pelvic cavity as a diaphragm. Further studies are needed to evaluate morphologic changes of the pelvic floor following delivery as measured by 2D and 3D-transperineal ultrasound.
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KEYWORD
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Ultrasonography, Pregnant, Pelvic floor
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