The pubococcygenous muscles at the base of the pubic bone are responsible for helping to control urination and bowel movements. However, as with all muscles, occasionally, they lose their strength and the ability to function effectively, leading to incontinence. Kegel exercises, if performed regularly, may improve muscle tone and strength and reduce incontinence. However, as with any medical condition, a doctor's advice is recommended before you begin any self - treatment.
Your Own Body
Using the body as your exercise tool, you can try and tighten your pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises. They can be done as quick contractions or slow contractions and should be performed several times a day.
Biofeedback
According to the Urology Channel's website, biofeedback may also help reinforce correct exercise techniques. An instrument is set up to record electrical signals that are produced when the muscles are contracted. These signals are converted into audio signs to allow the patient to understand and learn how to control his muscle movements.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for Stress Incontinence
A probe is inserted into the vagina of a woman or anus of a man undergoing treatment and low current charge is passed through to aid the muscles in contracting. The patient is also instructed to squeeze and contract muscles during the session. This is repeated in a bid to strengthen and retrain urinary muscles.
Vaginal Inserts
These include vaginal cones and Kegel or Ben Wa balls. They are inserted into the vagina and Kegel exercises are performed with them. The weights are generally left in for up to 15 minutes at a time and an exercise period of 12 to 20 weeks is recommended depending on the level of incontinence experienced.
