Oncological treatment and functionality of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) in women with cervical cancer: prospective cohort

• Grant number: 24/21761-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: March 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Francisco José Candido dos Reis
• Grantee: Mariana Basilio Andrade
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer among women worldwide. Standard treatment ranges from conservative surgery in early cases to combinations with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and brachytherapy in advanced stages. However, all of these types of treatment can cause structural and functional changes that affect women's quality of life, sexual function, and pelvic floor. Urogynecological symptoms, sexual dysfunctions, and lymphedema are common, negatively impacting the lives of patients. Objective: To estimate the incidence and impact of functional and structural changes in pelvic floor muscles and lower limb lymphedema in women after surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy for cervical cancer. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study, including women diagnosed with cervical cancer who will undergo surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or brachytherapy. They are selected to undergo an evaluation in three stages (baseline, 3-month follow-up, and 6-month follow-up). In all stages, we will measure the strength of the pelvic floor muscles, apply the FSFI questionnaire and assess vaginal stenosis, pain, and lymphedema of the lower limbs. Partial results: To date, we have included 28 patients. All included participants have completed the baseline assessment, 8 have completed the first follow-up (3 months after treatment), and 3 have completed the 6-month follow-up. Squamous cell carcinoma corresponds to 92.9% of the participants. Of the total, 18 cases are locally advanced tumors and 10 are early stages.