Developing and Testing the Validity of Case Definitions for Pelvic Floor Disorders in Women who Consult Family Medicine Practices in Canada

Investigators

Sue Ross, Hilary Fast, Stephanie Garies, Deb Slade, Dave Jackson, Meghan Doraty, Rebecca Miyagishima, Tyler Williamson, Neil Drummond, Matt Taylor

Contact 

Rebecca Miyagishima at rcleonar@ualberta.ca

Funding

Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI)

Progress

Manuscript Written

Abstract

Background

Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), including pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence affect up to 40% of women. Risk factors include increasing age, obesity, chronic cough and obstetrical history such as history of instrumental delivery, vaginal tears and increasing numbers of deliveries.

Objective

This study aimed to develop and validate case definitions for pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence (stress and urge), fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse in women presenting in primary care clinics.

Methods

A review of patient charts formed the gold standard and was compared to a computer algorithm of the case definition using the SAPCReN-CPCSSN database. Outcome measures included the validity metrics sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value as well as prevalence. Prevalence was determined within the sample using the gold standard chart review.