Journal of Gynecology Obstetrics and Human Reproduction, cilt.47, sa.7, ss.309-315, 2018 (SCI-Expanded)
Objective: This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of vaginal delivery and aging on anal sphincter anatomy and function. Method: Asymptomatic thirty women were included in this prospective study. Group 1 included 10 women (age range: 18–50) who had never been pregnant. Group 2 included 10 women (age range: 18–50) who had vaginal delivery. Group 3 included 10 women over 50 who had vaginal delivery. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the three groups in terms of resting and squeeze pressures. It was found that sphincter thickness showed statistically significant difference between the group 1 and group 3, and also group 2 and group 3. There was not statistically significant difference between the group 1 and group 2 in terms of sphincter thickness. There was a positive correlation between the age and sphincter thickness in all groups. In terms of sphincter thickness and pressure findings there was a positive correlation between the squeeze pressure and external anal sphincter thickness only in group 3. Conclusion: The vaginal delivery did not have a negative influence on the structure and function of the anal sphincter in asymptomatic women. However, it was found that anal sphincter thickness changed strongly in a positive manner with aging.