|
 Kegel
exercises can be carried out as a preventative measure
to help strengthen the pelvic floor. The purpose
of doing pelvic
floor exercises is to re-educate
the pelvic floor muscles so that they are able to
control the flow of urine more efficiently.
Good muscle tone and control of the vagina are important
for the following reasons:
-
Placement
of the contraceptive diaphram
-
Increased
interest and more satisfaction in sexual reactions
-
Reduce
the chance of vaginal infections
-
Support
the bladder during childbirth and hysterectomy
A high percentage of physicians and childbirth/antinatal
classes recommend pelvic floor exercise to their patients.
A weakened pelvic floor may result in leaking of urine
when coughing, laughing, sneezing, straining or playing
sport. This is called Stress
Incontinence. Urge
Incontinence is the urgent need to pass
urine frequently and may be associated with a weak
pelvic floor.
Weakness may cause:
Pelvic floor muscles may weaken due to
-
Pregnancy and childbirth
-
Persistent heavy lifting
-
High impact sports
-
Being overweight
-
Continual
straining to open the bowels (constipation)
-
A
chronic cough (ie: bronchitis, asthma, smoking)
-
Changes
in hormone levels
-
Doing
Kegel exercises
regularly will make the muscles stronger leading to
little or no urine loss for many women. It is risk-free
and painless!
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