Effects of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training on Female Sexual Function in Women with Stress Urinary Incontinence: A...

Background and Objectives: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common condition among women and is frequently associated with impaired sexual function and increased sexual distress. Pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is considered a first-line conservative treatment for SUI; however, its effects on female sexual function remain incompletely understood. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of PFMT on sexual function, sexual distress, and pelvic floor muscle performance in women with SUI. Materials and Methods: This prospective controlled observational study included sexually active women with clinically confirmed SUI and female sexual dysfunction. Participants were allocated either to a control group (Group A) or to a supervised 12-week PFMT program (Group B). Sexual function and distress were assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R), respectively. Pelvic floor muscle performance was evaluated using Peritron perineometry, including peak vaginal squeeze pressure, endurance, and resting tone. Objective severity of SUI was assessed using the one-hour pad test. Results: A total of 102 women completed the study, including 44 in the control group and 58 in the PFMT group. After 12 weeks, women undergoing PFMT demonstrated significant improvements in urinary continence, pelvic floor muscle strength, and sexual function compared with controls (all p < 0.01). Mean FSFI total score increased from 21.5 ± 2.5 to 26.6 ± 3.3, while the proportion of women with clinically significant sexual distress decreased from 100% to 58.6%. Peak vaginal squeeze pressure and endurance also improved significantly following PFMT. Conclusions: PFMT significantly improves sexual function, reduces sexual distress, and enhances pelvic floor muscle performance in women with SUI. These findings support the integration of PFMT into the comprehensive management of women with SUI and associated sexual dysfunction.