ArticleGynecology and pelvic medicine2026
Association between pelvic floor care practices and symptoms in female track and field athletes: a cross-sectional study.
Article in Gynecology and pelvic medicine, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
Background: Maximal sports performance requires sustained physical effort that challenges the structures and functions of the pelvic floor (PF), particularly in high-impact disciplines such as track and field. Despite the specific daily demands faced by female athletes, no studies to date have explored the influence of these habits on PF symptoms. This study aimed to describe the most frequent toileting and training habits related to the PF and to evaluate their association with pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD) in female athletes. Methods: A total of 281 female track and field athletes participated in this cross-sectional observational study. Between May and August 2023, participants completed an online questionnaire assessing urinary, fecal, and sports training habits, as well as sociodemographic data and symptoms related to PFD. Validated and adapted scales, along with ad hoc items, were used. Results: The most frequent toileting habits were related to premature voiding, such as attempting to urinate before training (>60%) or trying to defecate at home (>75%). During sports training, the most common habit was a healthy practice, being mindful of posture to protect the PF (38.4%). Unhealthy habits related to straining during voiding or defecation, and preferences for specific toileting locations, were more prevalent among athletes with urinary and anal incontinence (AI). However, associations between sports training habits and PFD symptoms were unclear. Conclusions: A high proportion of female athletes report toileting habits considered potentially harmful to PF, mainly involving premature voiding and location preferences. Healthy habits during sports training are infrequent. Habits involving straining and location preferences were more common among athletes with PFD symptoms. Further research is needed to investigate the role of sports-related habits in PF health.
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