Inter and Intra Rater Reproducibility of the NEW PERFECT Protocol for Assessing Pelvic Floor Muscle Function in Pregnant Women.

• Grant number: 25/07281-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: September 01, 2025
• End date: August 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Camile Ludovico Zamboti Simprini
• Grantee: Leticia dos Reis Falconi Nogueira
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy directly impacts the pelvic floor muscles, potentially leading to dysfunctions that compromise quality of life. Therefore, evaluating these muscles is essential, and the NEW PERFECT protocol is widely used for this purpose. However, its reproducibility has mostly been investigated in non-pregnant women, highlighting the need for specific studies involving pregnant women. In this context, it is crucial to ensure accurate assessments and appropriate therapeutic approaches for this population.Objectives: To assess the intra- and inter-rater reproducibility of the NEW PERFECT protocol in pregnant women.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study involving low-risk pregnant women between 14 and 40 weeks of gestation. Participants will be evaluated at two time points, with an interval of 6 to 14 days. In the first assessment (AV1), personal data and current obstetric history will be collected, along with self-reported questionnaires on urinary incontinence symptoms (Questionnaire of urinary incontinence diagnosis, Incontinence Severity Index Questionnaire e International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires - Short Form), sexual function and satisfaction (Female Sexual Function Index), quality of life (The Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey), and physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire). Next, pelvic floor muscle function (PFMF) will be assessed through bidigital vaginal palpation using two applications of the NEW PERFECT protocol, and through vaginal manometry (Peritron©) to measure maximum voluntary contraction with three repetitions, all performed by the same examiner. In the second assessment (AV2), two applications of the NEW PERFECT protocol will be repeated: one by the same examiner and one by a different examiner, with randomized order.Statistical analysis will be conducted using SAS On Demand for Academics, with significance set at 0.05. The following statistical tests will be used: Shapiro-Wilk, Chi-square, Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), Kappa, Student's t-test, and Mann-Whitney test.Expected Results: It is expected that the NEW PERFECT protocol will demonstrate good to excellent intra- and inter-rater reproducibility in pregnant women, thus supporting its reliability for use in clinical practice with this population. (AU)