Pelvic Floor Exercises

What are Pelvic Floor Exercises?

Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, help strengthen the muscles around your bladder, uterus, vagina/penis, and large intestine.

Why are they beneficial?

As you age or are pregnant, it is best to start doing Kegel exercises regularly. They can help control urine leakage or bowel movements. They can prevent the accidental passing of stool or gas and may even help to improve orgasms. In pregnancy, these exercises will lower your chance of experiencing incontinence after having your baby and help your body cope with the growing weight of the baby. It can also help men manage prostate pain and swelling that occurs with prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia. In short, it pays to keep your pelvic muscles strong.

How can one do Pelvic Floor Exercises in pregnancy?

Empty your bladder when you go to the toilet. Afterward, squeeze and draw in the muscles around your anus and vagina simultaneously as if you are trying to stop urinating. Hold the squeeze as you count to 5; relax for 5 seconds, and repeat.