Incontinence is difficult to manage and isolating for those who cannot control urine leakage. Many health-care providers encourage the practice of Kegel exercises to build strength in certain muscles that can help to control urine flow. Regular practice of Kegel exercises may reduce some of the symptoms of urinary incontinence and provide more freedom for those with this condition.
Identification
Kegel exercises are used to help people strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. These muscles control the passage of urine and stool from the body, and may become weakened in situations that cause a great amount of pressure, such as childbirth. Kegel exercises are the practice of tightening pelvic muscles in order to build up strength. They are encouraged for those who suffer from incontinence to help control leakage of urine, says the UIniversity of Michigan Health System.
Incontinence
Urine is a waste product of the body that is normally contained in the bladder until it is released. Most people with an urge to urinate contract the pelvic muscles to keep urine in the body until they can get to a bathroom. Incontinence occurs when urine leaks despite attempts to contain it. It can be due to weakened pelvic muscles, the effects of certain medications, or urinary tract infections, says the Center for Holistic Urology. Incontinence causes isolation and embarrassment for those who cannot control urine leakage, and people may feel that they always need to be near a bathroom.
Methods
In order to find the right muscles to use for Kegel exercises, contract the muscles of the pelvis that control the flow of urine. After emptying the bladder, practice contracting these muscles and holding for six seconds. Release the muscles and rest for six seconds. Repeat this interval for a period of five minutes, three times a day. Over the course of the next four weeks, increase the amount of time for practice, continuing to keep pelvic muscles contracted for six seconds at a time. Improvement of incontinence symptoms can be seen after three months of regular Kegel exercises.
Considerations
Some people benefit from practicing Kegel exercises more than others. According to the Mayo Clinic, women who are pregnant; women who have recently given birth; those who are overweight; and those who suffer from a chronic cough are some of the types of people who can control urinary incontinence by practicing Kegel exercises.
Benefits
Those who practice Kegel exercises should see a reduction in incontinence and increased strength in the pelvic floor muscles. For women who are pregnant, these exercises help to reduce urine leakage caused from pressure on the bladder in the later stages of pregnancy. Kegel exercises are also recommended for women for increased satisfaction with sexual activity and who may have difficulty achieving an orgasm.
