Effect of yoga on pelvic floor muscle strength in menopausal females

Background: By the age of 40–60 years, females achieve menopause. A lot of changes occur in the body because of menopause. It often accompanies alterations in the functioning of the female pelvic floor. Change in the routine with an improved diet and exercise cycle helps in the reduction of distresses related with menopause. Evidences recommend that yoga has an effect on core muscles and cardiovascular components. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of yoga on pelvic floor muscles' (PFMs) strength using perineometer and Brink score in females attaining menopause. Materials and Methods: A study was done on 17 menopausal females aging between 40 and 70 years. Participants were taught yoga exercises on day 1 and asked to do exercises at home for 5 days a week for 4 weeks. Primary outcome measures were PFM strength using perineometer and Brink score readings. Results: The patients showed no significant improvement in Brink score (P = 0.13) and no significant improvement in perineometer readings (P > 0.05). Postreadings of both outcome measures showed no significant improvement in PFM strength in patients. Conclusion: The study concluded that PFM strength did not show an increase after practicing yoga for a period of 4 weeks. This states that the effect of simple exercises cannot work on PFMs.