Project Description
Title of the study: The reliability of pelvic floor morphometry measured from ultrasound images acquired at rest and during weight lifting tasks.
Currently recruiting in the Greater Vancouver area of BC
Study Overview
Exercise-induced urinary incontinence (leakage of urine during physical activity) is commonly reported by physically active individuals, including weight lifters. Research shows that many athletes feel these symptoms negatively affect their training or performance, yet a large proportion do not discuss their concerns with a healthcare professional. In addition, both athletes and coaches often report limited understanding of pelvic floor anatomy and function.
Given the growing popularity of resistance training and the frequency with which females report urinary leakage during lifting, pelvic floor function during high-load tasks such as squats and deadlifts remains under-researched.
Ultrasound imaging is a non-invasive tool that allows researchers and clinicians to visualize pelvic floor structure and movement. However, its reliability during dynamic, loaded lifting tasks is not yet well established.
Before this method can be used to meaningfully study pelvic floor behaviour during weight lifting, it is important to first confirm that the measurements are consistent and trustworthy.
Study Aim
The aim of this study is to evaluate the reliability of ultrasound imaging measures of pelvic floor function during loaded resistance exercises.
Improving the reliability of these measurements will help advance future research, reduce stigma, increase awareness, and support better clinical care for athletes experiencing pelvic floor symptoms.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Females or those with vaginas who are 18+ years old
- Able to safely perform a barbell back squat lifting greater than 80% of body weight or more
- Able to communicate in English
- Not currently pregnant or less than 12 months postpartum
- No history of urogenital surgery (eg. prolapse surgery or sling procedures)
- No pelvic organ prolapse > Stage 2 (eg. vaginal bulging beyond the vaginal opening)
- No current pelvic, hip or low back injuries that limits lifting
- No medical conditions that prevent safe lifting
What does participation involve?
- Completing an online questionnaire < 20 minutes
- An in-person lab assessment < 2 hours, including a pelvic floor ultrasound assessment during a loaded barbell squat and barbell deadlift. Location: Greater Vancouver Area of BC
Benefits to participating:
- Help advance research on urinary incontinence in athletes
- Lululemon swag (headband or pair of socks) for participating
Interested?
Please complete our pre-screening questionnaire – https://redcap.link/mfmlab_lift_screen to determine if you are likely eligible to participate and or email us at for more details!
Participants will be accepted on a first-come, first-served bases. The protocol has been reviewed by the University of Ottawa Health Sciences Research Ethics Board for compliant with national standards for ethical conduct of research on humans.
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Linda McLean
MFM Lab, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Ottawa
