Indications for Kegel exercises:

•    Stress incontinence
There are muscle fibers which form a sphincter mechanism around the base of the bladder enabling the bladder to retain urine even when it is full.  When the muscle is voluntarily relaxed urine is allowed to be released, while voluntary contraction stops the flow.  If the integrity of these muscle fibers is compromised from being traumatized, stretched, or torn during childbirth, such things as sneezing, coughing, or laughing can result in a dribble or even a gush of urine which cannot be controlled.  This is known as stress incontinence.

•    Tonify muscles of the pelvic floor following childbirth
There are muscles known as the pelvic floor or pelvic sling which support the organs in the pelvis.  They often become stretched during childbirth.  Maintaining muscle tone helps hold the organs in place.

•    Aid in repair of cystocele or rectocele
A cystocele is ther term used when the bladder herniates or pouches out into the vagina following tissue injury.  A rectocele is a similar condition involving the rectum rather than the bladder.

•    Increase sexual pleasure and stregthen orgasm
Kegal exercises have been advocated for the improvement of sexual relations between couples because they improve the ability of the vaginal sphincter to contract.  The vaginal sphincter to contract.  The viginal sphincter is responsible for the clasping action of the vagina around the penis during intercourse as well as being a muscle involved in the orgasm.

How to do Kegels

Kegels can be done anywhere and anytime - - standing, sitting or lying down.  The action of the exercise is to contract the muscle in the pelvic region.  It will feel as though you are trying to draw the vagina and the anus up into the pelvis.  Hold for a couple of seconds.  Repeat 50 to 100 times a day.  They can be divided into several sets to be done throughout the day, or done all at once.  In addition, whenever voiding, the flow of urine should be stopped and started several times.  This will strengthen the msucle at the neck of the bladder thereby preventing the leakage of urine.