Effects of positive sex education and pelvic floor strengthening program on sexual and pelvic health among youngest old: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND

Despite suggestions to handle comprehensive approach and integrate and various sectors and disciplines to address sexual health, discussions about sexuality in aging populations have largely centered on issues of sexual function. This study aimed to examine the effects of a positive sex education and pelvic floor strengthening program on youngest-old women’s sexual function, sexual esteem, and quality of sexual life as primary outcomes and pelvic floor health as a secondary outcome.

METHODS

A parallel two arms randomized controlled trial was conducted, involving 70 youngest-old women (mean age = 65.80 ± 5.20). They were randomly assigned into two groups: (1) intervention group ( = 35) took positive sex education and pelvic floor strengthening program, and (2) waiting-list control group ( = 35) did not take any intervention related sexuality, but have received the treatment after fulfilling post-test evaluations. This study utilized self-reported and validated measures that were associated with outcomes. Effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated with using t-test.

RESULTS

The intervention group exhibited statistically significant changes in sexual function, self-esteem, and overall sexual quality of life when comparing the baseline and post-test assessments. The waiting-list control group showed no statistically significant changes in any of the measured outcomes when comparing baseline and post-test assessments. Post-test assessments between the two groups by controlling the impact levels of pelvic floor dysfunction revealed significant differences favoring the sexual health group in sexual function and all sub-parameters of pelvic floor dysfunction and their impact, with the exception of colorectal dysfunction. In addition, although women who participated in the program had increased sexual esteem and quality of sexual life compared to those in the waiting-list control group, the observed difference did not reach a level of statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

The sexual program which handled comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach could offer more than just addressing sexual function. Due to the unreached significant increase in sexual esteem and sexual quality of life and lack of knowledge about these, there is a need to have future studies. It is essential for national health policies to incorporate and act on interdisciplinary approach to sexuality in older adults.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with identifier NCT06539897 on 02.08.2024.