25401779
BACKGROUND	Pelvic floor muscle training ( PFMT ) has level 1 evidence of reducing the size and symptoms associated with pelvic organ prolapse ( POP ) .
BACKGROUND	There is scant knowledge , however , regarding whether PFMT has an effect on sexual function .
OBJECTIVE	The aim of the trial was to evaluate the effect of PFMT on sexual function in women with POP .
METHODS	In this randomized controlled trial , 50 women were randomized to an intervention group ( 6 months of PFMT and lifestyle advice ) and 59 women were randomized to a control group ( lifestyle advice only ) .
METHODS	Participants completed a validated POP-specific questionnaire to describe frequency and bother of prolapse , bladder , bowel , and sexual symptoms and answered a semi-structured interview .
RESULTS	No significant change in number of women being sexually active was reported .
RESULTS	There were no significant differences between groups regarding change in satisfaction with frequency of intercourse .
RESULTS	Interview data revealed that 19 ( 39 % ) of women in the PFMT group experienced improved sexual function vs. two ( 5 % ) in the control group ( P < 0.01 ) .
RESULTS	Specific improvements reported by some of the women were increased control , strength and awareness of the pelvic floor , improved self-confidence , sensation of a `` tighter '' vagina , improved libido and orgasms , resolution of pain with intercourse , and heightened sexual gratification for partners .
RESULTS	Women who described improved sexual function demonstrated the greatest increases in pelvic floor muscle ( PFM ) strength ( mean 16 10 cmH2 0 ) and endurance ( mean 150 140 cmH2 0s ) ( P < 0.01 ) .
CONCLUSIONS	PFMT can improve sexual function in some women .
CONCLUSIONS	Women reporting improvement in sexual function demonstrated the greatest increase in PFM strength and endurance .

