Measurement of pelvic floor muscular strength with the Colpexin pull test: a comparative study

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis: The aim of this study is to compare the Colpexin pull test (CPT) with the Oxford muscle grading scale (OMGS) in assessing pelvic floor muscle strength.

Methods: In phase 1, 15 asymptomatic women underwent OMGS and CPT using three different spheres to select the ideal size. CPT values as well as patient/examiner comfort and ease of CPT performance were recorded. In phase 2, 30 women with stress urinary incontinence underwent CPT and OMGS by two examiners during two separate sessions. Statistical analysis was performed.

Results: In phase 1, the 36-mm sphere was selected based on resting (p < 0.001), contraction CPT (p < 0.001), patient ease (p = 0.018), patient comfort (p = 0.004), and examiner comfort (p < 0.001). In phase 2, there was good intra-rater and inter-rater agreement in maximum CPT. Both tests were positively correlated (r = 0.50, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: CPT is an objective measure of pelvic floor strength and provides consistent, reproducible results.