To Kegel… or not to Kegel

The controversy behind the lift and squeeze

In today’s world we are constantly getting mixed messages, some saying you aren’t doing kegels enough while others are saying kegels aren’t helpful. It can be confusing trying to make decisions for your individual pelvic health needs. While it’s not black and white, here is a general guide on when to Kegel —and when not to!

For those who have truly JUST pelvic floor weakness, kegels can strengthen these muscles. The caveat is that your pelvic floor muscles don’t work in isolation and therefore need to be strengthened alongside of other regions — such as the glutes, inner thighs, and core! Additionally, in order for this strength to translate to an improvement in function, they need to be strengthened through movements that mimic real life. Laying on your back and doing a Kegel can’t quite do that.

In contrast to true pelvic floor weakness is pelvic pain. Pelvic pain is usually associated with tension in these muscles. Pelvic pain can look like painful intercourse, abdominal pain, or tailbone pain. We treat this differently because pelvic muscle tension requires focus on muscle relaxation and lengthening. In some instances, those who have pelvic pain and do kegels can end up with more pain.

If you aren’t sure where you fall between these two categories, it might be time to see a pelvic floor PT! Additionally, if you have pelvic pain or symptoms of weakness (incontinence) you would also benefit from PT.