Tactile Imaging and Electromyography

Pelvic floor disorders result from neuro-urinary pathology as well as muscle functional impairment due to changes in bio-mechanical properties of soft tissues with the age. That is why pelvic floor characterization and diagnosis must include electomyographic (EMG) and biomechanical measurements (pressure) or better if EMG and tactile imaging with improved spatial resolution. The quantitative and objective imaging data for pelvic floor conditions could allow an effective treatment of OAB and UI.

In this research the investigators propose to develop a new device for accurate diagnosis of the diseased conditions by measuring the pelvic floor muscles strength and EMG activity. The value to society is high given by the prevalence of OAB and UI.

Inclusion criteria

• Women above age of 21 with normal pelvic floor condition for the control
• Women with SUI conditions as defined by International Continence Society guidelines
• Women with OAB conditions as defined by American Urological Association and Society of Urodinamics, Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction.

Exclusion criteria

• Any prior pelvic floor surgery related to SUI, POP or OAB conditions
• Active skin infection or ulceration within the vagina
• Presence of the vaginal septum
• Active cancer of the colon, rectum wall, cervix, vaginal, uterus or bladder
• Ongoing radiation therapy for pelvic cancer; impacted stool
• Surgically absent rectum or bladder
• Sever hemorrhoids
• Significant circulatory or cardiac conditions that could cause excessive risk
• Significant pre-existing pelvic pain including levator ani syndrome, severe vaginismus or vulvodynia.