Abstract

MAGNO, Lílian Danielle Paiva; FONTES-PEREIRA, Aldo José  and  NUNES, Erica Feio Carneiro. Quantitative assessment of female sexual function correlated with the contraction of the pelvic floor muscles. Rev Pan-Amaz Saude [online]. 2011, vol.2, n.4, pp.39-46. ISSN 2176-6215.  http://dx.doi.org/10.5123/S2176-62232011000400006.

Sexuality is relevant for the well-being of every person, and the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) have an important role regarding their sexual function. The objective of this study was to investigate a possible correlation between female sexual function and the contraction amplitude of the PFM. The sample consisted of ten healthy and sexually active women aged between 21 and 40 years, with no complaints of sexual or gynecological dysfunction. Sexual function was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the contraction amplitude of the PFM in supine position was measured using a perineometer. The volunteers were divided into three groups, according to the contraction amplitude of the PFM: G1 (amplitude degree I), G2 (amplitude degree II), and G3 (amplitude degree III). The FSFI scores were compared among the groups and then correlated with the amplitude degrees. There was no statistical difference between G1 and G3, and G1 women reported lower discomfort/pain scores compared to G2. There was a positive correlation between the FSFI scores and the strength level of the PFM. This study showed that the higher the contraction strength of the PFM, the better the sexual function indices in healthy women.

Keywords : Sexuality; Pelvic Floor; Women's Health; Muscle Strength; Sexual Behavior; Health Evaluation.

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