Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training and Yoga on Serum Estradiol Levels and Sexual Function among Postpartum Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Sexual relationships are the most crucial part of marital partnerships, and their quality sig-nificantly influences both individual’s and communities’ health. Meanwhile, one of the stages of life that affects the quality of sexual function is the postpartum period. Given the significance of this issue, the present study seeks to determine the impact of eight weeks of high-intensity interval training and yoga on serum estradiol levels and sexual function among postpartum women. Materials and Methods: This clinical trial enrolled 18 eligible women presenting to midwifery clinics due to sexual dysfunction. By following the eligibility criteria and using a simple randomization method, the subjects were divided into a control group (n=10) and an intervention group (n=8). The intervention group participated in an eight-week program consisting of yoga and high-intensity interval training. Data collec-tion involved administering a general information questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and Sexual Self-Schema Scale. Additionally, serum estradiol levels were measured in both control and intervention groups. Then, the data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 24, using the ANCOVA. Results: In comparison to the control group, the intervention group showed a significant increase in post-partum serum estradiol levels (p<0.001). Furthermore, eight weeks of training significantly enhanced sex-ual function (p<0.001) and sexual schema (p=0.033) in the women. Conclusion: The findings of this research provide evidence supporting the effect of an eight-week training program on altering the serum estradiol levels and improving sexual function among postpartum women.

Keywords

• exercise intervention
• estradiol
• sexual function
• postpartum