Mota, PatríciaGuimarães, FláviaHomsi-Jorge, Christine2024-09-062024-09-062023-09Mota P, Guimarães F, Homsi-Jorge C. Feasibility study of a 4-week EPI-no® protocol in pregnant women. In: ICS 2023, Toronto (Canada) September 27-29, 2023.http://hdl.handle.net/10400.21/17682Introduction: The purpose of using the Epi-No device would be to stretch the vaginal wall up to its maximum diameter; once done repeatedly, it would facilitate perineal distension during birth and labor. Objective: To determine the feasibility of a supervised daily four-week Epi-no® protocol in pregnant women. Methods: Pregnant women received a 20-session protocol with daily progression of the balloon diameter over four weeks, and a satisfaction form at the end. Postpartum obstetric data, fetal values, and ICIQ-SF scales were collected. Results: Nine pregnant women performed an average of 12 sessions, after which they claimed to be completely satisfied (55.6%) or satisfied (44.4%) with the obtained scores. The balloon diameter was progressing but unrelated to the episiotomy procedure. Conclusion: The 4-week protocol with Epi-No® is feasible, safe, well accepted by pregnant women and may benefit the flexibility of the perineal muscles.engPhysiotherapyRehabilitation4-Week EPI-NO®Pregnancyconference object