Pilates may improve female sexual function, study finds.

A 12-week Pilates program improved sexual function, reduced depression, and increased satisfaction in women with sexual dysfunction.

Why it matters

  • Offers a non-drug treatment for female sexual dysfunction.
  • Highlights Pilates' dual benefits: physical and psychological.
  • Provides a holistic approach to sexual health.

By the numbers

  • 93 participants.
  • 12-week program.
  • Improvements exceeded 95% across all FSFI categories.

The big picture

  • Adds to research on non-drug treatments for sexual health.
  • Pilates may help with conditions like dyspareunia by improving pelvic floor muscle control.

What they're saying

  • A commenter suggests comparing Pilates to other exercises would have been more valuable.

Caveats

  • Small sample size.
  • Did not account for menstrual cycle variations or underlying gynecological pain syndromes.
  • Control group did not engage in specific exercise.

What’s next

  • Larger, more diverse studies needed.
  • Future studies could include broader health assessments.