According to a new study published by the International Society of Sexual Medicine in its journal, physical resistance training helps women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting 5-10% of the female population of fertile age.

Sexual function and quality of life are often compromised in PCOS patients,especially those with physical changes due to hyperandrogegism. Many of these patients also experience low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression.

This study evaluated sexual function and mental well-being of 94 women aged 18-37, of which 43 are patients with PCOS, after 16 weeks of physical resistance training.

Results show that the training significantly improved total scores of sexual function including desire, arousal, excitement, and lubrication. Physical resistance training also reduced pain during intercourse, anxiety and depression.

The researchers suggest that physical resistance training exercise should be encouraged as an intervention for women with PCOS, and that more studies be conducted to determine what types of resistance training exercises are the most useful.