Kegel exercises
Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles to improve their strength, endurance, and coordination. They are commonly recommended during pregnancy and after birth to help prevent or reduce urinary leakage, support pelvic organ health, and speed recovery from a vaginal delivery. To perform them, squeeze the muscles you would use to stop the flow of urine, hold for a few seconds, then fully release. The release phase is just as important as the squeeze. Some people have a pelvic floor that is too tight rather than too weak, and for them, Kegels can actually worsen symptoms like pain or urgency.
What This Means for You
Understanding Kegel exercises is an important part of your pregnancy/postpartum journey. Keeping this in mind as you read, attend appointments, and connect with other parents will help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed.
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A women's health physiotherapist can assess whether you need strengthening, relaxation, or coordination training before you begin a Kegel routine. Getting this right from the start avoids setbacks.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/glossary-of-pregnancy-and-labour
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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