Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine self-efficacy in performing pelvic floor muscle exercises in young women.
Background: A review of literature found that little has been done to examine women's self-efficacy in performing pelvic muscle exercises. Although research is scarce, what is available supports the concept of self-efficacy as a predictor of success with exercise activity. By examining self-efficacy in the context of pelvic muscle exercises, we may gain insight into the best practice for educating women on pelvic muscle exercises.
Methods and Measures: A sample of 327 female participants aged 18 to 30 years was obtained. The Broome Pelvic Muscle Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (PMSES) was used to collect data on women's perceived self-efficacy. The self-administered instrument measures self-efficacy for the performance of pelvic muscle exercises in women in 2 parts, A and B. Part A addresses the subjects' level of confidence in their ability to perform the activity. Part B addresses the subjects' level of confidence that the activity will prevent unwanted urine loss. Demographic information was also collected.
Results: The mean score on the PMSES was 76.44% (18%). The median score was 80.5% with a range of 24% to 100%. The mean score on Part A of the scale was 77.80%. The mean score on Part B of the PMSES was 74.82%.
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that young women scored relatively high on the PMSES, suggesting that they have confidence in the fact that they are performing pelvic muscle exercises correctly and that they will prevent unwanted urine loss.