Kegel Exercises for Vaginal and Pelvic-Floor Health
Kegel exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic-floor muscles. They can be useful for some urinary and pelvic-floor problems, but technique matters.
How to identify the muscles
The pelvic floor includes the muscles you would use to stop the flow of urine, but regularly practicing while urinating is not recommended.
A basic exercise
Gently contract the pelvic-floor muscles, hold for a few seconds, then fully relax. Repeat without tightening the abdomen, buttocks or thighs.
More is not always better
Some people have overly tight pelvic-floor muscles and may need relaxation rather than strengthening. Painful sex or pelvic pain can be signs that professional evaluation is needed.
Get help if symptoms persist
A pelvic-floor physical therapist can assess whether weakness, tension or coordination is the actual issue.
Kegels can be helpful, but they should not be treated as a universal exercise for every vaginal or sexual-health concern.
