Pelvic physical therapy for male sexual disorders: a narrative review
Emel Sahin, Alma Brand, Elif Nazlı Çetindağ, Bert Messelink, Hayrı Baran Yosmaoğlu
Abstract
Pelvic physical therapy is an evidence-based, first-line treatment for many pelvic floor disorders and sexual dysfunction. Studies have shown that pelvic physical therapy programs can both improve pelvic floor dysfunctions and sexual function. This article aims to provide an overview of the current state of the art regarding pelvic physical therapy for male sexual dysfunction to inform healthcare providers who treat men with sexual dysfunction better. A literature review was performed in Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct to find review articles, research articles, and case studies about the effect of pelvic physical therapy treatments for male sexual dysfunction. Twenty-six articles were found about various pelvic physical therapy interventions. Besides this overview of the literature, an overview of interventions used in clinical practice is also provided. This narrative review supports the potential efficacy of pelvic physical therapy in addressing male sexual dysfunction. Pelvic physical therapy approaches that comprise exercise modalities, electrotherapy approaches, manipulative techniques, lifestyle changes, behavioral suggestions, and pain management strategies, should be suggested for potential benefits in improving erectile function, premature ejaculation, and sexual dysfunction-associated chronic pelvic pain. More research is needed to examine the effect of pelvic physical therapy on hypoactive sexual desire and delayed ejaculation.