Knowledge, attitude, and practice among resident physicians on female pelvic floor disorders in a Philippine tertiary training hospital
Mary Rani Cadiz, Lisa Prodigalidad-JabsonAbstract:
BACKGROUND:
Female pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) represent a significant yet frequently underreported cause of chronic morbidity among women. Lack of provider knowledge and delayed screening often contribute to suboptimal management. Resident physicians across major specialties are pivotal in early recognition, counseling, and referral for PFDs.
OBJECTIVES:
The objective of the study is to assess the familiarity, diagnostic and management comfort, and referral practices regarding PFDs among resident physicians from four major specialties – Obstetrics and Gynecology, Surgery, Family and Community Medicine, and Internal Medicine – at a tertiary training hospital.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a modified, validated questionnaire distributed both online and in print. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, proportions, mean ± standard deviations) and Pearson’s Chi-square test were applied to determine associations between demographic variables (sex, training level, and specialty) and PFD-related familiarity, perception, and referral behaviors (
RESULTS:
Of 120 respondents (53% response rate), most were female (62.4%), junior trainees (62.4%), and Obstetrics-Gynecology residents (45.4%). Awareness of Urogynecologists or Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgeons was high (70.8%). Female and senior residents reported significantly more frequent screening for PFD symptoms, independent of specialty. Comfort levels varied across specialties: Family and Community Medicine residents were most confident diagnosing urinary and anal incontinence, while Obstetrics-Gynecology residents were most comfortable diagnosing pelvic organ prolapse. The presence of institutional Urogynecology services strongly influenced referral patterns.
CONCLUSION:
Considerable variability exists in PFD-related knowledge, diagnostic confidence, and screening practices among resident physicians, shaped by sex, specialty, and training level. Targeted educational interventions and strengthened interdepartmental collaboration are recommended to improve PFD recognition, management, and referral pathways.