Long-Term Outcomes of Combined PFMT and Biofeedback

Management of postpartum pelvic organ prolapse remains a key priority in urogynecology. Clinicians frequently prescribe supervised pelvic floor muscle training to restore structural support. However, addition of electrical stimulation biofeedback raises questions regarding long-term clinical efficacy.

Trial Evaluation of Postpartum Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Researchers conducted a randomized controlled trial in Beijing among primiparous women. Specifically, the study evaluated participants with stage II or III prolapse at two months postpartum. Furthermore, investigators assigned 220 women to supervised pelvic floor training alone or combined with biofeedback.

Long-Term Anatomical and Strength Results

At 24 months, the proportion of women showing improved prolapse stage did not differ significantly between groups. Consequently, adding electrical stimulation failed to offer superior long-term anatomical recovery. Nevertheless, the combined intervention group demonstrated significant gains in muscle strength. In addition, health economic analysis revealed higher overall costs without significant quality-adjusted life year improvements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Does electrical stimulation improve prolapse stage long term?

No, adding electrical stimulation biofeedback to pelvic muscle training showed no significant difference in prolapse stage at 24 months.

Q2: Were there any safety concerns reported in the trial?

No adverse events occurred during the study period for either intervention group.

References

1. Li M et al. Long-Term Effects of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training Combined With Electrical Stimulation Biofeedback Among Women With Symptomatic Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Randomised Controlled Trial. BJOG. 2026 Aug 12. doi: 10.1111/1471-0528.70313. PMID: 42584084.