Effectiveness of Digital Health-Enabled Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis 


Vol. 14,  No. 6, pp. 386-396, Jun.  2025
https://doi.org/10.3745/TKIPS.2025.14.6.386


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  Abstract

This review investigates the clinical effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) interventions delivered through digital health modalities for individuals experiencing urinary incontinence (UI). It also explores embedded system-level features that may shape adherence behavior and health outcomes. Extensive searches were undertaken across global (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL) and Korean (RISS, KISS) academic databases for relevant studies published from 2000 to 2023. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating digital PFMT programs delivered through mobile apps, telehealth systems, or wearable technologies were selected. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Meta-analytic synthesis with a random-effects model was used to calculate pooled effects. Additionally, a narrative synthesis examined digital functionalities including feedback mechanisms, adherence tracking, and user engagement tools. Ten eligible RCTs involving 1,342 participants were analyzed. Digital PFMT yielded statistically significant benefits in reducing symptom severity (SMD = −0.46; 95% CI: −0.73, −0.19), alleviating urinary distress (SMD = −0.41; 95% CI: −0.68, −0.14), and enhancing quality of life (SMD = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.67). Platforms incorporating real-time feedback loops, gamified interfaces, and structured reminders were associated with better adherence and sustained benefits. In contrast, few interventions integrated AI-based personalization or ensured interoperability with other digital systems. Digital PFMT approaches demonstrate clinical value in managing UI and improving patient-reported outcomes. Emphasizing real-time interactivity, tailored feedback, and user-centered system architecture could further optimize intervention adherence and impact. The findings advocate for the continued evolution and integration of smart PFMT tools within comprehensive digital health strategies.

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[IEEE Style]

I. G. Yoo and G. Kim, "Effectiveness of Digital Health-Enabled Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," The Transactions of the Korea Information Processing Society, vol. 14, no. 6, pp. 386-396, 2025. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3745/TKIPS.2025.14.6.386.

[ACM Style]

In Gyeom Yoo and Gaeun Kim. 2025. Effectiveness of Digital Health-Enabled Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Urinary Incontinence: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The Transactions of the Korea Information Processing Society, 14, 6, (2025), 386-396. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3745/TKIPS.2025.14.6.386.

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