Introduction and hypothesis: The objective of this study was to compare complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use in women with and without pelvic floor disorders (PFD).
Methods: We conducted a survey of women presenting to a specialty urogynecology (Urogyn) and gynecology (Gyn) clinic that examined demographic data, CAM use, and the presence of PFD (validated questionnaires). T tests, Fisher's exact tests, and logistic regression were used for analysis. To detect a 20% difference between groups, 234 Urogyn and 103 Gyn patients were needed.
Results: Participants included 234 Urogyn and 103 Gyn patients. Urogyn patients reported more CAM use than Gyn patients, even when controlled for differences between groups (51% vs. 32%, adjusted p = 0.006). Previous treatment (61% vs. 39%, adjusted p < 0.001) and increased number of PFD was associated with increased CAM use (adjusted p = 0.02).
Conclusions: Women with PFD use CAM more frequently than women without PFD.