Beneficial effects of Pilates exercise on female sexual dysfunction: A prospective pilot study

Abstract

ObjectiveFemale sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a significant public health issue, and it has a high global prevalence. Few effective treatment options are available for the treatment of FSD. We conducted a prospective clinical pilot study to investigate the beneficial effects of Pilates exercise on sexual function in women with FSD. MethodsWomen aged between 20 and 50 years and who had regular menstrual cycles and sexual relationships and participating Pilates exercise program were asked to complete Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaires before starting the Pilates exercise program. If the total FSFI score was less than 26.55, which is the cut-off for FSD, the subject was invited to participate in the study. Primary endpoints were changes in total and individual domain scores on the FSFI and BDI. ResultsA total of 36 premenopausal women were included in the study. After a 12-week Pilates program, all domains of the FSFI were significantly improved, with mean±SD total FSFI scores increasing from 12.0±4.9 to 29.3±3.4 (P<0.0001). BDI scores were significantly decreased from 25.1±14.3 to 1.6±3.7 (P<0.0001) after the exercise program. ConclusionsThis pilot study showed that Pilates exercise could improve sexual functions in women with FSD. Pilates may facilitate the treatment of sexual dysfunction in women.