That, Rawlins adds, means youre not getting any of the benefits of strengthening them.
Having a strong pelvic floor can help support your core, Cook explains.
In addition, urinary and bowel incontinence can be due to a weak pelvic floor.
Kegels can help to strengthen your pelvic floor and decrease incontinence symptoms.
Kegels are used to train your pelvic floor muscles to be stronger and more supportive, she says.
Tighten for three seconds and release for three seconds.
doctor of physical therapy specializing in women’s health
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
The glutes and inside thigh muscles are helpers of the pelvic floor, Cook explains.
Youre holding your breath
Breathing is important in Kegel exercises, too.
Holding your breath actually puts increased pressure on your pelvic floor, Cook says.
As you exhale, your pelvic floor naturally lifts.
As you inhale, your pelvic floor naturally lowers.
You should be completing Kegels as you exhale.
But your pelvic floor muscles react to changes in posture and pressure in your abdominals, she points out.
Repeating this over time can lead to symptoms such as prolapse.
doctor of physical therapy specializing in women’s health
Therefore, you actually want to exhale and Kegel as you lift.
Youre not relaxing your pelvic floor
Relaxation is an integral part of doing your Kegels, too.
Tight pelvic floor muscles can lead to pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, and other symptoms.
If you have questions about your Kegels, check in with your ob/gyn during your next visit.
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