It is most common to first hear about kegel exercises when preparing for labour. Often, a doctor, physiotherapist, midwife, or doula may recommend kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles when preparing for childbirth. Whichever way you deliver a baby, there is a great benefit to having a strong pelvic floor for the delivery and postpartum process.
There is substantial evidence that shows starting kegel exercises before pregnancy will have any impact on your labour and delivery. Kegel exercises are pelvic floor muscle contractions that you can do anytime, anywhere. They are beneficial for pregnant women because they help keep the pelvic floor muscles strong and toned. This can help reduce the risk of urinary incontinence during and after pregnancy. It’s a good idea to start doing kegel exercises early in your pregnancy and continue doing them throughout your pregnancy and after delivery.
The pelvic floor muscles get tested during pregnancy and childbirth. The weight of a pregnant belly, changes in posture and body alignment, and all the stretching or compacting can put extra strain on these essential structures, resulting in common disorders like Pelvic pain disorder. A woman’s birthing experience isn’t just about giving birth; it involves an intense physical effort while growing another human being inside her.
Kegels can be started as early as 14 weeks pregnant and should continue throughout your pregnancy. This is when many moms-to-be experiences an energy boost from the second trimester on, making it perfect timing for those who want more excitement in their lives! After giving birth (via vaginal route or cesarean), you may resume doing Kegel exercises within days of getting cleared by a doctor if everything went smoothly without complications.
Kegel exercises help to improve age-related changes by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. As women age, they are more likely to experience bladder leaks and other problems attributed to a weak pelvic floor. Kegel exercises can help to improve bladder control and reduce the risk of urinary incontinence. Additionally, kegel exercises can help to enhance sexual function by increasing the strength and tightness of the vaginal muscles. If you are leaking when jumping, running, coughing, or laughing, you may be suffering from a weak pelvic floor, and it might be time for you to start kegel training.
Alternative uses to start kegel exercises revolve heavily around body awareness. Pelvic floor muscles are an integral part of our overall well-being. As we age, pelvic floor muscles can weaken, causing incontinence; thus, a better understanding of how to train the pelvic floor muscles can be helpful even if you’re not currently experiencing symptoms of incontinence.