Pelvic floor training for lower urinary tract dysfunction in MS.

The aim of this study was to determine if pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) improves lower urinary tract function in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The authors found that a nine-week PFMT programme improved the function of the PFM, reduced the symptoms associated with lower urinary tract dysfunction and increased the quality of life in people with MS.

Five year follow-up comparing tension-free vaginal tape and colposuspension.

Burch colposuspension has been the procedure of choice for stress urinary incontinence, more recently the tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) has been used. A retrospective study on all TVT's and colposupensions was performed. The present clinical condition was assessed using the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Short-Form 12 questionnaires.

Substance abuse in pregnancy: opioid substitution in a northern Ireland maternity unit.

An increase in illicit drug use in Northern Ireland may well have links to the resolution of political conflict, which started in the mid 1990s. Social issues, heretofore hidden, have emerged into the limelight and may be worsened by paramilitary involvement. Registered addicts in the four Health Board areas have shown an increase from 1997 with the greatest number resident within the Northern Board Area.

A study of quality of life in primigravidae with urinary incontinence.

This study aimed to establish the prevalence and effect of urinary incontinence on quality of life during pregnancy and after parturition. A prospective cohort of primigravidae was recruited. The Kings Health Questionnaire (KHQ) was self-administered antenatally (34 weeks to term) and postnatally (3 months after delivery).