Kegel Exercises For Pregnant Women

Kegel exercises for pregnant women are one of the best a exercises a pregnant woman can do. They are also very simple and can be done anywhere. These types of exercises are good for female health, whether you are pregnant or not. During pregnancy they are especially helpful in strengthening and supporting the organs and muscles in the pelvis. Kegel exercises can also help a pregnant mother prepare for labor by helping her to control her muscles.

When performing Kegel exercises use the muscles and control that are used in trying to stop the flow of urine or attempting not to pas gas. Doing this contracts the muscles of the pelvic floor. Kegel exercises are just that. It is important when performing Kegel exercises that no other muscles, such as leg muscles, abdominal muscles, or buttock muscles are moved. This is an isolated exercise. If a woman is performing Kegel exercises correctly, no one should even be able to tell.

It is recommended that Kegel exercises be done five times per day. Each time they are performed, ten of them should be done. The muscle contraction should be held for five seconds, relaxed and then repeated. Some women do them each time they are stopped at a stoplight in traffic to help remind them to do them.
Kegel exercises are even recommended after delivery because they help promote healing and strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and help in regaining bladder control. Most women are encouraged to do Kegel exercises during the post partum period. Many are even taught how upon discharge after delivery or during a prenatal class.

Women who have questions about how to perform Kegel exercises, or are unsure if they are right for their particular condition, should check with their healthcare provider.