International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology · May 13, 2026
Effect Of Combined Oral Myofunctional Therapy And Pelvic Floor Muscle Training On Sleep And Urinary Outcomes In Menopausal Women With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
By Thinakaran M, G MKP, Ranganathan P et al.
Background Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a widely prevalent sleep-related breathing disorder marked by repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. These episodes result in diminished airflow, intermittent oxygen desaturation, and disrupted sleep patterns. Furthermore, pelvic floor dysfunction in this population may contribute to urinary incontinence, particularly nocturnal leakage. Conservative physiotherapy approaches, such as Oral Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) and Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT), are designed to enhance muscle strength, tone, and coordination of both the upper airway and pelvic floor musculature. Aim: To assess the effectiveness of combined pelvic floor muscle training and oral myofunctional therapy in menopausal women with obstructive sleep apnea and nocturnal urinary incontinence. Methodology: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 20 menopausal women diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, presenting with symptoms including snoring, disturbed sleep, witnessed apneic episodes, morning headaches, excessive daytime sleepiness, and nocturnal urinary leakage. Participants were recruited based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria after obtaining informed consent. The intervention consisted of oral myofunctional therapy exercises targeting the oropharyngeal musculature, including the tongue, soft palate, and facial muscles, combined with pelvic floor muscle training aimed at improving pelvic support and bladder control. The intervention was implemented over a period of four weeks. Sleep-related symptoms were assessed using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, while urinary symptoms were documented before and after the intervention. Results: Significant improvements were observed after the intervention. The mean ESS score decreased from 13.8 ± 3.2 to 8.1 ± 2.7 (p < 0.001). Pelvic floor muscle strength increased from 21.4 ± 4.8 cmH₂O to 29.6 ± 5.2 cmH₂O (p = 0.002). Nocturnal urinary incontinence episodes reduced from 4.2 ± 1.3 to 1.6 ± 0.9 episodes per week (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The combined application of pelvic floor muscle training and oral myofunctional therapy may be effective in alleviating symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea and nocturnal urinary incontinence in menopausal women. These noninvasive physiotherapy interventions have the potential to enhance upper airway muscle tone, improve pelvic floor strength, and contribute to overall improvements in quality of life.