Prevalence and risk factors for pelvic floor disorders in Ethiopian women: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction: Pelvic floor disorders are common and debilitating conditions affecting women. This study aims to determine the prevalence of pelvic floor disorders among Ethiopian women and to identify associated risk factors. Method: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Primary studies were identified through electronic searches of Google Scholar, HINARI, MEDLINE, and PubMed. Result: A total of 23 papers meeting the inclusion criteria were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis of pelvic floor disorders. Sixteen studies were used for the pooled prevalence analysis. In Ethiopia, the pooled prevalence of pelvic floor disorders was 22% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 16, 28). The following factors were found to be associated with pelvic floor disorders: age at first delivery under 20 years (pooled odds ratio (POR) = 5.08, 95% CI = 3.1, 8.33), multiparity (POR = 4.23, 95% CI = 2.9, 6.16), age 40 years or older (POR = 3.67, 95% CI = 2.21, 6.11), carrying heavy objects (POR = 3.73, 95% CI = 2.98, 4.68), chronic cough (POR = 4.68, 95% CI = 2.21, 9.94), instrumental-assisted vaginal delivery (POR = 3.7, 95% CI = 2.45, 5.57), menopause (POR = 3.62, 95% CI = 2.53, 5.18), history of chronic constipation (POR = 3.37, 95% CI = 2.25, 5.02), prolonged labor (POR = 4.63, 95% CI = 2.56, 8.38), and sphincter damage (POR = 3.93, 95% CI = 1.85, 8.32). Conclusion: Pelvic floor disorders represent a major but often overlooked health issue for Ethiopian women, with substantial implications for their well-being. Addressing these disorders requires coordinated efforts in prevention, early diagnosis, and management, as well as broader social and health system changes to reduce stigma and improve access to care.