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Kegel Exercises

Kegel exercises can strengthen the pelvic muscles and ligaments to treat and prevent urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and other problems caused by having weak pelvic floor muscles.

To do Kegel exercises:

  • Squeeze the same muscles you would use to stop your urine. Your belly and rear end (buttocks) should not move.
  • Hold the squeeze for 3 seconds, then relax for 3 seconds.
  • Repeat the exercise 10 to 15 times a session. Do three or more sessions a day.

For best results, more than three sets of Kegel exercises should be done every day.

Last Revised: September 13, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Avery L. Seifert, MD - Urology

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