Prenatal Pilates and Sexual Function During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a period associated with significant hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that may affect a woman's sexual function and increase sexual distress. Sexual dysfunction and related distress are common during pregnancy and may negatively impact quality of life and intimate relationships. Regular physical activity during pregnancy has been shown to improve physical well-being, emotional health, and overall quality of life. Prenatal Pilates is a commonly preferred exercise method among pregnant women and is thought to improve posture, pelvic floor muscle strength, body awareness, and stress levels. However, limited evidence exists regarding the effects of prenatal Pilates on female sexual function and sexual distress during pregnancy. This prospective observational cohort study aims to evaluate changes in female sexual function and sexual distress throughout pregnancy and to compare these changes between pregnant women who regularly participate in instructor-led prenatal Pilates and those who do not engage in structured exercise. Participants will be enrolled during the first trimester and followed across all three trimesters of pregnancy. Female sexual function will be assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and sexual distress will be measured using the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R). These questionnaires will be administered online during the first, second, and third trimesters. The study does not involve any intervention or exercise prescription; participants in the Pilates group will continue their usual prenatal Pilates activities by personal choice. The results of this study are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between prenatal physical activity and sexual health during pregnancy and may help inform future counseling and supportive care strategies for pregnant women.