Bladder Symptoms, Fatigue and Physical Activity in Postpartum Women

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Physical activity is important for postpartum women. The objective of this study was to evaluate bladder symptoms, fatigue, and physical activity according to time after birth and birth modes. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study using web-based questionnaire or one-to-one contact. A total of 290 women after giving birth responded to self-administered questionnaires. Multivariate analysis of variance determined the differences in variables. RESULTS: Bladder symptoms were significantly different by time after birth and birth mode; they were the highest in the first week after birth and in Cesarean birth. Postpartum fatigue showed a significant tendency by birth mode, but not by time after birth. Physical activity was significantly different by birth mode. The lowest level of physical activity was found for women who gave Cesarean birth. Moderate physical activity was also significantly different by time after birth, but vigorous physical activity was not significantly different. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, bladder symptoms and physical activity are different by time after birth and birth mode in postpartum women. The first week after giving birth is an important period for postpartum women whose bladder symptoms and physical activity should be of concern.