The experience of urinary incontinence is poorly researched among Pasifika women in New Zealand and little is known about the prevalence, incidence, risk factors or consequent management strategies among this group. To explore the experience of urinary incontinence among Pasifika women, data from a focus group study carried out in 2020 were analysed. Ten Pasifika women from South Auckland participated in a culturally safe focus group to specifically explore cultural beliefs and attitudes, and the management of, and help-seeking behaviours around urinary incontinence. The focus group identified factors influencing the lived experience of the condition, and access to appropriate information. Regarding access, participants highlighted the importance of using community languages and providing safe spaces so women can initiate conversations about urinary incontinence. Participants noted the central role female relatives may have in caring for women with lower urinary tract symptoms, and a need for greater access to Pasifika healthcare providers. Further research among Pasifika women will allow for more targeted solutions and potential care options.

Spinal cord infarction is rare, often with a sudden onset of symptoms including bladder and bowel dysfunction, paralysis and sensory disturbances.

This case reports the efficacy of a therapeutic exercise program as a non-invasive functional treatment for urinary incontinence and reports its results. It describes a 67-year-old woman who experienced a T10‑L1 anterior spinal cord infarction living with residual urinary incontinence and lower limb sensory and strength deficits.

This paper explains the overflow effect of high volume exercise prescribed to address urinary incontinence symptoms resulting from spinal cord infarction. It highlights the potential use of co‑contraction techniques in the conservative management of neurogenic lower urinary tract symptoms.

This study aim was to evaluate women’s experiences of a biopsychosocial approach to incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse care through an integrated clinic with a general practitioner and physiotherapist providing care. A prospective observational study was undertaken with 36 women, prior to treatment and upon discharge from the clinic, using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires, Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and
Vaginal Symptoms. Qualitative interviews were also undertaken with 20 of the 36 study participants. Participants reported significant reduction in biological symptoms, including nocturia, urgency, frequency, urge incontinence, frequency of incontinence, and vaginal symptoms of dragging and soreness (p<0.05). Index scores for vaginal symptoms, filling and incontinence decreased significantly (p<0.05). Interviews revealed that participants also experienced improvements in related conditions, including constipation and pelvic pain. Psychosocial improvements included significant decrease in bother associated with urinary and vaginal symptoms, and fewer negative effects of symptoms on relationships, sex life and quality of life (p<0.05). During interviews, participants reported improved confidence and sense of control, and better sexual and social relationships. This study concludes that an integrated general practitioner/physiotherapy clinic taking a biopsychosocial approach to healthcare can significantly reduce physical symptoms and improve psychological and social dimensions of health for women with POP and incontinence.

Women with obstetric fistula, chronic 4th degree perineal tear and severe pelvic organ prolapse in limited resource regions where effective healthcare is unavailable experience high rates of mental health dysfunction and loss of social connectedness. A multidisciplinary team approach encompassing medical, nursing, social work and allied health professionals is required to provide non-surgical and surgical repair options for pelvic floor pathologies, mental health support and social assistance. In addition, healthcare and promotion organisations are needed to assist with education, programs and funding to enable effective provision of management strategies.

Keywords pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, obstetric injury, limited resource regions, mental health and wellbeing