How do Kegel Weights Work?
We get asked so many varied questions about our Kegel Kit, in this blog we will be answering some of our most frequent questions. If you have any further questions feel free to leave them at the bottom of this blog and we will be happy to answer them. Without further ado let’s get to it and answer some questions for you.
What is the Kegel Kit?
So naturally, your first question may be, what is the Kegel kit? The Kegel Kit is what we like to call The Dumbbell for your pelvic floor! It is exactly what it says on the tin, a weight for your pelvic floor muscle. The weights are to be used alongside your Kegel Exercises and they encourage the correct muscles to engage making sure your Kegel exercises are working the correct muscles. The Kegel Kit is a progressive system that gradually builds the strength of your pelvic floor.
What are Kegels?
Kegels, not many people know what a Kegel is or how to do them, don't worry we've got you! Kegels are the exercise for your pelvic floor muscles, there are 3 different types of Kegel exercises; slow, fast, and the knack.
Slow Contractions – Helps to strengthen the pelvic floor and hold back urine.
- Lift your pelvic floor muscles as hard as you can (not tummy or buttocks).
- Hold the muscles tight for 10 seconds
- Relax your muscles and rest for 5 seconds
- Repeat this 10 times
Fast Contractions – Help your pelvic floor cope with pressure (coughing, sneezing, running, etc.)
- Lift your pelvic floor muscles quickly
- Hold the muscles tight for 1 second
- Relax your muscles and rest for 1 second
- Repeat 10 times
The “knack”- this method is known as bracing yourself. You squeeze and hold before coughing, sneezing, lifting, or anything else that causes you to leak urine. This method can be 98% effective so give it a go!
How do Kegel weights work?
Kegel weights work by allowing the correct muscles in the pelvic floor to engage, they do this by falling into a natural position where the pelvic floor muscles have to contract to keep them in place. As you do your Kegel exercises with the weights in the weights will ensure the correct muscles are contracting.
Can I use the Kegel Weights with a prolapse?
The answer to this is yes! If you have a prolapse it's always good to try non-invasive methods before surgery. However, we do always recommend seeking medical advice if needed. Our Kegel weights are suitable for all types of prolapse, they help to push the organs back into place while exercising your pelvic floor. If you would like more information on prolapses check out our blog "It feels like something is falling out my vagina"
Do I need lubricant to use the weights?
This is completely your decision and preference. You may find it easier to use a lubricant when inserting the weights especially for the first time, or you may not! Be sure to use a water-based lubricant if you do though as silicone-based lubricants can end up damaging your weights and we don't want that!
How effective are Kegel weights & How long until I see improvement?
The question we all ask when we start off wanting to improve something is, how long will It take? This can be dependent on so many factors such as the starting strength of your pelvic floor and consistency. Some women start to see improvements as quickly as 1-2 weeks but generally, most women have said it took 3-4 weeks. CONSISTENCY IS KEY!
Why do my Kegel Weights keep falling out?
This is probably one of the most common questions we get. It is normal, to begin with as it can take some time to get used to. There are a few steps you can take to ensure you're doing everything to prevent this from happening. Firstly, make sure your weights are inserted far enough, you can't push them too far, they won't get lost don't worry! It's similar to inserting a tampon, they will fall to a natural resting place and they need to be sat on the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor muscles should contract to hold the weights in place.
If your weights do fall out don't panic, just simply insert them again and complete your Kegels lying down until you feel you are on the stage you can stand or walk with the weights in. Over time your muscles with strengthen and you will find you will be able to wear your weights while brushing your teeth or while you're on a walk! Trust the process.
Can I use the weights during my period?
This is another answer that is completely your choice! It is safe to use your Kegel weights during your period but to us, it's not necessary. We believe there is enough happening during your time of the month so we say take a break! Don’t worry about losing any of your hard work, just continue to do your Kegels naturally without the weights. If you do choose to use the weights during your period just be sure to keep them extra clean! Speaking of periods, we also offer a fantastic environmentally friendly alternative for period protection – The CupIT Menstrual cup! Read all about it here Make The Switch – Menstrual Cups – or to purchase yours today click here CupIT Menstrual Kit – SecretWhispers™
Can I use the weights during pregnancy?
Absolutely! As long as you have no pelvic pain or medical issues you can safely use your weights during pregnancy. We will always advise that you speak with your pelvic floor physio or a medical professional. Pregnancy puts a lot of stress on the pelvic floor so using the Secret Whispers Kegel weights can help keep it strong, which helps with an easier delivery and recovery.
How do I insert and remove the Kegel weights?
This is another question we get asked a lot, we have created a step by step guide on how to insert and remove your Kegel weights below:
- Wash your hands and weights using warm soapy water.
- Empty your bladder and bowel.
- Find a room and time where you won’t disturbed (difficult we know!)
- Find a comfortable position, such as a leg raised on the bed or the bath.
- Insert as you would with a tampon, it won’t go too far. Insert them as high as comfortable, they will move down to a natural resting place.
- Insert them gently on an outward breath. Relax and remember to continue breathing.
- Used water-based lubricant If you wish
- The cord should remain outside your body
- Wearing underwear is recommended
- Remove the weights during and outwards breath (don’t bear down on your pelvic floor) and wash thoroughly.
Can I use Kegel Weights after a hysterectomy?
Absolutely you can! Your pelvic floor muscles are usually weakened after a big surgery like a hysterectomy. It is important to rebuild the strength in your pelvic floor and Kegel Weights are a great way to do this alongside Kegel exercises.
Can I use Kegel weights if I have an IUD/Coil?
You can indeed. IUD'S or coils sit above the cervix with tiny strings extending out into the vagina. The Kegel weights sit a lot lower than this and are unlikely to come into contact with the IUD or coil that you may have.
What does the Secret Whispers Kegel Kit come with?
So what comes with the Secret Whispers Kegel Kit? Not only do you get your weights, but you also get a 6 step exercise program, access to our closed Facebook group, free eBook, and elegant pouch for storing your weights on the move plus full customer support to ask any questions you may have. Does this sound like something you need? Purchase our Kegel Kit here Pelvic Floor Toner For Women. As Heard on the Chris Evans Show – SecretWhispers™.
If you have any questions about the topics discussed in the blog please don’t hesitate to contact us:
Email: support@secretwhispers.co.uk
Instagram: Secretwhispersuk
