The role of midwifery in education and prevention of pelvic floor dysfunction in primary care: An area of pending attention in adolescence

Abstract

One in three adolescent girls experiences urinary incontinence without realizing it's related to their pelvic floor. They tend to normalize the symptoms and, consequently, downplay their importance despite the impact they have on their lives. This document reveals a worrying gap in pelvic health education, which focuses almost exclusively on pregnant women, postpartum women, and older women, leaving adolescents marginalized. Midwives in Primary Health Care can change this reality by becoming key agents, thanks to their training and close relationship with the adolescent population. Their work allows them to break down taboos, educate on basic anatomy, promote preventative habits, and detect early signs that may affect the pelvic floor. Incorporating a preventative approach in adolescence helps prevent future pelvic floor dysfunction, improves quality of life, and reduces healthcare costs.