How to do Kegel Exercises

While pregnant, did you learn how to do Kegel exercises to ready yourself for childbirth?

These same exercises are also sometimes prescribed by doctors as effective exercise after pregnancy.

And from what I have read, are occasionally recommended for people who have a chronic cough, or are overweight, as both conditions can place excessive pressure on the Kegel muscles. And, since these muscles tend to weaken with age, it may be useful to exercise them routinely.

Muscle Strengthening Help with Kegel Exercises

Pelvic floor muscles, also called the Kegel muscles, form a "sling" which supports the uterus, bladder and kidneys. With childbirth these muscles weaken and are often strengthened through exercise.

It has long been reported by many medical professionals, that by keeping pelvic floor muscles toned there is a decreased risk for incontinence, and similar problems as women age. The trick is doing Kegel exercise properly.

How do you find the Kegel muscles?

They are the pelvic floor muscles which contract when you stop urinating, and when weakened cause incontinence in many postnatal women. Contracting these muscles often during the day, perhaps doing several repetitions of 10-15 contractions each time, may have a significant benefit. For optimal benefit of Kegel exercises it is often suggested that they be done in varying positions, while lying down, sitting and standing.

This website is written by a patient NOT a practitioner. Exercises and techniques discussed here were provided to me - for my specific needs. To avoid risk of serious injury they should not be used by others without being discussed with a qualified health care provider.

Kegel Exercise Questions

Talk with your doctor if you have Kegal questions. They can help you further with instructions for Kegel exercises and other post pregnancy exercise that may be suitable for you.