Kegel beads, also known as Kegel balls or Ben Wa balls, have been used by women for centuries as a simple but effective way to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. These small weighted balls can make a significant impact on your overall pelvic health, improving bladder control, sexual pleasure, and even recovery after childbirth. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how Kegel beads can help enhance your pelvic floor muscles and turn your Kegels into an easy and fun activity.
Understanding Kegel Beads
Kegel beads are small, weighted spheres that are inserted into the vagina with the goal of helping women to strengthen their pelvic floor muscles. They are usually made of silicone, plastic, or metal and come in various sizes and weights. The key to using Kegel beads is to engage and contract the pelvic floor muscles to keep the beads in place. This exercise helps to target and strengthen the specific muscles responsible for maintaining bladder control, supporting the pelvic organs, and enhancing sexual sensation.
Benefits of Using Kegel Beads
Improved Bladder Control:
By strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, Kegel beads can help reduce the occurrence of urinary incontinence, particularly stress incontinence associated with coughing, sneezing or physical exertion.
Enhanced Sexual Pleasure:
Stronger pelvic floor muscles can improve sensitivity and arousal, leading to more intense orgasms. Both partners may also notice an increase in sexual satisfaction as a result of increased muscle control during intercourse.
Post-Childbirth Recovery:
Pregnancy and childbirth put a significant strain on the pelvic floor muscles, often leading to a weakened and stretched pelvic floor. Using Kegel beads postpartum can help speed up the recovery process by regaining muscle tone and strength.
Prevent Pelvic Organ Prolapse:
Regular use of Kegel beads may help reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse, a condition when the pelvic organs slip out of place and into the vagina, often caused by a weakened pelvic floor.
How to Use Kegel Beads
- Select the appropriate size and weight of Kegel beads for your comfort level. Beginners should start with smaller, lighter beads and gradually work their way up as they build strength.
- Apply a generous amount of water-based lubricant to the beads and your vaginal entrance before inserting the Kegel beads one at a time.
- Find a comfortable position, either lying down or standing up, and insert the beads into the vagina as you would a tampon, keeping the removal cord outside the body.
- Begin by contracting your pelvic floor muscles to keep the beads in place. Hold the contraction for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this exercise for 5-15 minutes, gradually increasing the duration and intensity as your strength improves.
- Remove the beads by gently pulling on the retrieval cord or bearing down with your pelvic muscles.
Kegel Beads Example:
Imagine a busy mom who struggles with bladder leaks whenever she sneezes or laughs. Frustrated by the inconvenience and embarrassment of this issue, she decides to try using Kegel beads to perform targeted pelvic floor exercises. After a few weeks of consistent use, she notices improvements in her bladder control and experiences fewer leaks. With continued dedication to her kegel exercises using beads, she regains her confidence and quality of life. The added bonus of increased sexual pleasure and intimacy with her partner only serves to reinforce her commitment to maintaining her pelvic floor health.
Kegel beads are a valuable tool in the journey to improve and maintain your pelvic floor health. With consistent use, their benefits extend far beyond bladder control to create a ripple effect on your overall well-being and quality of life. Don't hesitate to share this article with others, as more women should be informed of the ways they can take control of their pelvic health. Be sure to explore other guides on Pelvic Floor Therapy for more comprehensive information and support in achieving and maintaining a strong, healthy pelvic floor.
