The Effects of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training and Behavioral Training on Sexual Dysfunction, Incontinence, Physical Activity Level and Quality of Life in the Elderly

Alterations in hormonal balance, especially with ageing, cause many pelvic floor problems such as urinary incontinence, lack of interest in or desire for sex and inactivity. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of pelvic floor muscle exercise and behavioral training programs on sexual function, incontinence, quality of life and physical activity level in the elderly. A total of 94 elderly subjects were separated into two groups as the pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) group and the behavioral training for pelvic floor dysfunctions (BT) group. A (1-h program was applied twice a week for 8 weeks). Evaluations pre and post-training were made using the Female Sexual Function Inventory, the International Index of Erectile Function, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, SEAPI quality of life scale, and Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. In the post-treatment comparisons, the PFMT group was superior to the BT group in all parameters (z: − 4.21–0.00, p:0.00–0.02). The results of this study suggest that pelvic floor muscle training could be beneficial if added to rehabilitation programs for the elderly to obtain less sexual dysfunction and, incontinence, and better incontinence-related quality of life and physical activity levels.