Effects of Diaphragmatic Therapy on Pelvic Floor Muscle Activity, Stress Levels, and Sexual Life Satisfaction in Polish Women

Pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) in women play a key role, and their proper functioning depends on the coordinated interaction with other anatomical structures, particularly the diaphragm and deep abdominal muscles, which together constitute the so-called core stabilizing unit. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of diaphragmatic breathing therapy on pelvic floor muscle function and stress levels in healthy women. The randomized, controlled, parallel-group trial (allocation 1:1) included 42 women aged 21–30 years who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The experimental group received diaphragmatic breathing therapy. The following assessment tools were used: Surface Electromyography (sEMG), the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire in Close Relationships (KSS) by M. Plopa, and the Perception of Stress Questionnaire (KPS) by M. Plopa and R. Makarowski. In the experimental group, a significant reduction in resting PFM activity was observed in the final stage of the measurement protocol, along with a tendency toward decreased activity during relaxation phases. A trend toward increased amplitude during phasic and tonic contractions was also noted, more pronounced after therapy than in the control group, although not statistically significant. No significant associations between stress dimensions and sexual satisfaction were found in the control group, whereas in the experimental group, higher worry, reduced sense of meaning, low agency and pessimism correlated with lower sexual satisfaction and difficulties achieving orgasm. These findings suggest that diaphragmatic breathing therapy may reduce resting pelvic floor muscle activity and perceived emotional stress.