Effect of Pilates exercises with and without mindfulness on sexual function in females with polycystic ovary syndrome: A quasi-experimental study

Various physical and psychological factors influence the sexual function of females with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This study aimed to determine the effect of Pilates exercises combined with mindfulness on the sexual function of females with PCOS. In this quasi-experimental study conducted in 2021-2022 at public and private healthcare centers in Gachsaran, Iran, 136 married females with PCOS were selected through convenient sampling. They were then randomly assigned to one of four groups: Pilates exercises, mindfulness, Pilates exercises combined with mindfulness, and a control group, using a block randomization method. Interventions were conducted over twelve weeks during the first, second, and third menstrual cycles. Data were collected using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) at four time points: baseline and at the end of the first, second, and third menstrual cycles. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22, employing both descriptive and inferential statistics. Before the intervention, there was no significant difference in the overall score or subscales of sexual function among the four groups (P>0.05). After the intervention, no statistically significant differences were observed in the sexual function scores or subscales among the intervention groups (P>0.05). The impact of Pilates and mindfulness exercises alone was found to be equivalent to that of Pilates exercises combined with mindfulness on the sexual function of females with PCOS.