Effectiveness of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in Women Soccer Players and Its Relationship With Quality of Life and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

Abstract

Sebastian-Rico, JM, Muñoz-Fernández, MJ, Martínez-Aranda, LM, Calvo-Lluch, Á, and Ortega-Becerra, M. Effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle training in women soccer players and its relationship with quality of life and pelvic floor muscle strength: a randomized controlled pilot study. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2026—This study investigated the effects of a 6-week pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) program on muscle strength, function, and the prevalence of related dysfunctions in professional female soccer players using a randomized controlled pilot study design. Twenty nulliparous professional soccer players from the Spanish professional league (2024–2025 season) were randomly assigned to an experimental group ( n = 12) or a control group ( n = 8). Assessments included anthropometric data, validated questionnaires (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire–Short Form and Broome Pelvic Muscle Self-Efficacy Scale), clinical interviews, and physical examination using the PERFECT method and manometry. The intervention consisted of a 6-week supervised PFMT program (4 sessions/week, 30 minutes each) progressed through 4 phases: education, proprioception, strengthening, and functional integration. Results showed significant group × time interactions for pelvic floor self-efficacy (Broome Pelvic Muscle Self-Efficacy Scale), with scores in the PFMT group increasing by 48.8 and 59.6% ( p < 0.05), representing large between-group effect sizes ( d = 0.91–1.26). Pelvic floor muscle performance increased by 122.4% in the intervention group ( d = 1.25), whereas no meaningful changes were observed in the control group. No adverse events were reported. In conclusion, a 6-week supervised PFMT program is an effective and safe intervention for professional female soccer players, significantly improving muscle function and self-efficacy. These findings support the integration of PFMT for both therapeutic and preventive purposes in elite, high-impact sports environments.