Impact of pelvic floor dysfunctions on self-esteem and self-image in women: Scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Pelvic floor dysfunctions cause in women a series of negative effects on the quality of life, their self -esteem and self -image generating social isolation in them. Objective: Determine the impact of pelvic floor dysfunctions on women's self-esteem and/or self-image during the 2013-2023 years. Methodology: A scope review, using the prism methodology and CASPE questions for the review and analysis of quantitative and qualitative, retrospective scientific evidence, extracted from the WOS, Scopus, Pubmed and Lilacs databases between 2013 and 2023. Result: It was found that those women who present some types of pelvic floor dysfunction are evident that they have a negative effect with their self -esteem and/or self -image. The most predominant dysfunction in this population is urinary incontinence and the least studied is fecal incontinence, while pop significantly affects women's genital self -image. Therefore, pelvic floor dysfunction generates a deterioration in the mental health of women, negatively affecting interaction with their environment and self -perception. Discussion and Conclusion: Pelvic floor dysfunctions negatively affect the self -image and quality of life of women, generating emotional consequences such as shame, guilt and social isolation. These effects are aggravated by factors such as age, educational level, nutritional status and severity of symptoms. The study highlights the need for a biopsychosocial and interdisciplinary approach to treatment, integrating psychological support to address emotional impact and improve the integral well -being of patients.