Can You Overdo Pelvic Floor Exercises?

by Julie Colan September 26, 2023

Pelvic floor exercises, commonly known as Kegels, are an essential part of maintaining pelvic health. However, just like any other form of exercise, it's possible to overdo them. In this blog, we'll explore the signs of overdoing Kegels and provide you with valuable tips to ensure you're getting the benefits without overdoing it. Getting these right is what gets best results.

Signs of Overdoing Kegels

When it comes to pelvic floor exercises, moderation is key.

If you’re overdoing your Kegels, you might experience:

Increased tightness or tension in your vaginal muscles: When you overexert your pelvic floor muscles, they can become excessively tight or short, leading to discomfort and even pain.
Pelvic floor pain or discomfort: Overdoing your Kegels can cause strain and discomfort in your pelvic area. It's important to find a balance that works for your body.
Lower Back Pain: Overworking the pelvic floor muscles can lead to tension and discomfort in the lower back. This pain may be a result of the increased pressure and stress on the pelvic region. If you notice persistent lower back pain during or after performing Kegels, it's a sign to reassess your approach.
Urinary Urgency or Frequency: Excessive Kegel exercises can lead to increased urinary urgency or frequency. This means you may feel the need to urinate more frequently or suddenly, even when your bladder isn't full. It's essential to find a balance that supports bladder function rather than straining it.
Difficulty Relaxing the Pelvic Floor: An often overlooked aspect of pelvic floor health is the ability to relax these muscles. Overtraining them can lead to difficulty in achieving proper relaxation, which is crucial for overall pelvic health. If you find it challenging to release the tension in your pelvic floor, it's a sign that you may be overdoing it.

Tips to Avoid Overdoing Kegels

Kegel Correctly

Proper form is crucial for effective and safe pelvic floor exercises. It's essential to isolate the pelvic floor muscles without involving other muscle groups. To do this, focus on the sensation of lifting and squeezing around the vagina and anus without tensing your thighs or buttocks.

The best way to do this is to imagine holding in wind and wee at the same time. These are the areas that you want to be contracting.

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Don’t Squeeze Too Long

Holding a Kegel contraction for an extended period may seem like a way to intensify the exercise, but it can lead to overexertion. Squeezing for too long can cause fatigue in the pelvic floor muscles and potentially lead to strain or discomfort.

It's important to maintain a controlled and consistent rhythm, avoiding prolonged contractions that may put unnecessary stress on the muscles. Remember, quality repetitions are more effective than prolonged, excessive squeezing. Aim when doing a Slow Kegel to hold for up to 10 seconds.

Rest Between Kegels

It's crucial to incorporate adequate rest intervals between Kegel contractions. Overworking the pelvic floor muscles without allowing them time to recover can lead to fatigue and potential strain.

Aim for a balanced routine where you perform each contraction with intention and then allow a brief moment of at least a 5 second rest before the next repetition.

This way, you can optimize the effectiveness of the exercise without risking overexertion. Remember, giving your muscles time to recuperate is just as important as the exercise itself.

Be Patient

Achieving noticeable results with pelvic floor exercises takes time. It's a gradual process, and consistency is key. Avoid the temptation to rush progress, as this can lead to overexertion. Start with a comfortable number of repetitions and gradually increase over time.

Listen to Your Body

Pay close attention to how your body feels during and after Kegels. If you experience discomfort, pain, or increased tension, it's a sign that you might be overdoing it. Adjust your technique and intensity accordingly.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

It's important to remember that pelvic floor exercises should be done with mindfulness and proper technique. If you experience any of these signs, it's advisable to adjust your routine and consult a healthcare professional or a pelvic health specialist. for personalized guidance. Balancing strength-building with relaxation is key to maintaining a healthy pelvic floor.

Incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine can greatly benefit your overall pelvic health. However, it's crucial to strike a balance and avoid overexertion.

By following these tips and being mindful of your body's signals, you can enjoy the positive effects of Kegels without risking any potential harm.

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