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Pelvic floor exercises for erectile dysfunction

Feneley, Roger C.L.; Dunn, Christopher D.R.; Speakman, Mark J.; Swinkels, Annette; Dorey, Grace

Authors

Roger C.L. Feneley

Christopher D.R. Dunn

Mark J. Speakman

Annette Swinkels

Grace Dorey



Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To examine the role of pelvic floor exercises as a way of restoring erectile function in men with erectile dysfunction. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In all, 55 men aged >20 years who had experienced erectile dysfunction for ≥6 months were recruited for a randomized controlled study with a cross-over arm. The men were treated with either pelvic floor muscle exercises (taught by a physiotherapist) with biofeedback and lifestyle changes (intervention group) or they were advised on lifestyle changes only (control group). Control patients who did not respond after 3 months were treated with the intervention. All men were given home exercises for a further 3 months. Outcomes were measured using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), anal pressure measurements and independent (blinded) assessments. RESULTS: After 3 months, the erectile function of men in the intervention group was significantly better than in the control group (P < 0.001). Control patients who were given the intervention also significantly improved 3 months later (P < 0.001). After 6 months, blind assessment showed that 40% of men had regained normal erectile function, 35.5% improved but 24.5% failed to improve. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that pelvic floor exercises should be considered as a first-line approach for men seeking long-term resolution of their erectile dysfunction. © 2005 BJU International.

Citation

Dunn, C. D., Feneley, R. C., Speakman, M. J., Swinkels, A., & Dorey, G. (2005). Pelvic floor exercises for erectile dysfunction. BJU International, 96(4), 595-597. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-410X.2005.05690.x

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Sep 1, 2005
Journal BJU International
Print ISSN 1464-4096
Publisher Wiley
Peer Reviewed Not Peer Reviewed
Volume 96
Issue 4
Pages 595-597
DOI https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-410X.2005.05690.x
Keywords pelvic floor exercises, physiotherapy, erectile dysfunction, bulbocavernosus muscle, ischiocavernosus muscle
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1052742
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-410X.2005.05690.x


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