Urge incontinence in men, a need to urinate that is so strong that
you cannot reach the toilet in time.
Pelvic floor weakness due to childbirth. During pregnancy and
delivery, the pelvic floor can become stretched and weakened, commonly causing
urine control problems for months to years after childbirth. A weakened pelvic
floor can also allow one or more pelvic organs to sag (uterine prolapse). If
you are pregnant, start doing daily Kegels and continue them after having your
How to do Kegel exercises
Kegel exercises are easy to do and can be
done anywhere without anyone knowing.
First, as you are sitting or
lying down, try to contract the muscles you would use to stop urinating. You
should feel your pelvic muscles squeezing your
urethra and anus. If your stomach or buttocks muscles
tighten, you are not exercising the right muscles.
found the right way to contract the pelvic muscles, squeeze for 3 seconds and
then relax for 3 seconds.
Repeat this exercise 10 to 15 times each
session. Try to do this at least 3 times a day.
Kegel exercises are most
effective when done regularly.
Your doctor may want you to try doing
your exercises with
biofeedback to make sure you are doing them right.
Biofeedback allows you to see, feel, or hear when an exercise is being
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.