kegel exercises have been widely popular for improving pelvic floor muscle strength and treating various pelvic floor dysfunctions. As more and more people discover the importance of maintaining and strengthening their pelvic floor muscles, there has been a surge in demand for Kegel exercise equipment. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about Kegel exercise equipment, their types, benefits, and how to use them effectively.
The Importance of kegel exercises
kegel exercises, also known as pelvic floor exercises, are designed to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. These muscles support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. A strong pelvic floor can help prevent or alleviate various health issues such as:
- Urinary incontinence
- Fecal incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Lower back pain
- Sexual dysfunction
Pelvic floor dysfunction is common among both men and women, especially as they age or after giving birth. By regularly practicing kegel exercises, you can keep your pelvic floor muscles strong and healthy.
Types of Kegel Exercise Equipment
While kegel exercises can be done without any equipment, using specially designed devices can help ensure proper technique, as well as add variety and challenge to the exercises. Let's explore the most popular types of Kegel exercise equipment:
Vaginal Cones and Weights
Vaginal cones and weights are small, tampon-shaped devices that are inserted into the vagina to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. The cones come in different weights, allowing you to gradually increase the resistance as your muscles become stronger. To use vaginal cones, you simply insert the device and contract your pelvic floor muscles to hold it in place as you go about your daily activities.
Kegel Exercise Balls
Also known as Ben Wa balls, Geisha balls, or love balls, Kegel exercise balls are small, round, weighted balls that are inserted into the vagina or anus. They work by stimulating and exercising the pelvic floor muscles, which helps to strengthen them over time. Kegel exercise balls can be used during your daily activities, such as walking or standing, as well as during your Kegel exercise routine.
Resistance Devices
Resistance devices, such as Kegel exercisers and trainers, provide resistance to your pelvic floor muscles during the contraction phase of the exercise. These devices come in various shapes and sizes and are usually made from silicone or rubber. They are placed inside the vagina or anus and squeezed against during the contraction, which allows you to engage your pelvic floor muscles more effectively.
Electronic Pelvic Floor Stimulators
Electronic pelvic floor stimulators use mild electrical currents to stimulate the nerves and muscles of the pelvic floor. The stimulator is connected to a probe that is inserted into the vagina or anus, and the device delivers a gentle electrical pulse that causes the pelvic floor muscles to contract. These devices can be used in conjunction with kegel exercises or as an alternative treatment option for people who struggle with performing the exercises themselves.
Kegel Exercise Equipment Example:
Let's consider a realistic scenario to better understand how to use Kegel exercise equipment effectively. Take Lucy, an expecting mother in her third trimester, for example. Her doctor advises her to practice kegel exercises to strengthen her pelvic floor muscles, which will help ensure a smoother delivery and reduced postpartum recovery time.
Lucy starts by purchasing a set of vaginal cones and Kegel exercise balls. She begins her routine by using the lightest vaginal cone, inserting it into her vagina, and holding it in place with her pelvic floor muscles for 10-15 minutes while she walks around her home. After two weeks, she progresses to the next weight and adds kegel exercises with the exercise balls to her daily routine.
By integrating the use of Kegel exercise equipment into her regular exercise routine, Lucy significantly boosts the strength of her pelvic floor muscles, helping her prepare her body for childbirth and reducing her risk of pelvic floor complications in the future.
Now that you have a thorough understanding of the various types of Kegel exercise equipment and their benefits, you can choose the right tools to help you fortify and maintain your pelvic floor health. Whether you're dealing with a specific dysfunction or simply aiming to prevent future issues, incorporating these devices into your workout regimen can make a world of difference.
If you found this article helpful, be sure to share it with friends and family who might also benefit from learning about Kegel exercise equipment. And don't forget to explore other guides on our Pelvic Floor Therapy blog to further your knowledge and improve your pelvic floor health.
