Prevalence of low back, pelvic girdle, and pelvic floor complaints in pregnant elite athletes: a narrative review.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of low back, pelvic girdle, and pelvic floor complaints in pregnant elite athletes.

BACKGROUND

Common symptoms during pregnancy include low back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and pelvic floor dysfunction. There has been minimal investigation around the prevalence of these musculoskeletal disorders in the pregnant elite athlete.

METHODS

A narrative review was conducted using electronic databases and hand reference searching. Articles were screened based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

727 articles were retrieved digitally, while hand and reference searching yielded one article. After removing those that did not fit the inclusion/exclusion criteria, there were a total of three articles.

SUMMARY: Prevalence of these conditions in pregnant elite athletes is variable within the literature. The values appear to change based on trimester, parity, and description of these conditions. Similarly, frequency, duration, and type of exercise may also influence the prevalence. Further investigation is warranted to help guide safe participation in elite sport activity during pregnancy.