Can Kegels Be Bad?

Kegel exercises are a series of movements designed to strengthen the muscles of the area called the pelvic floor. Improper performance of Kegels can worsen the condition of these muscles and trigger certain side effects.

Stopping Urine Flow

Individuals learning how to perform Kegel exercises sometimes begin by intentionally stopping their urine flow when using the bathroom. However, habitually stopping urine flow after learning proper technique can weaken the pelvic floor, the Mayo Clinic reports.

Additional Complications

Additional potential complications of habitually stopping urine flow include increased risks of urinary tract infection and inability to completely empty the bladder, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Increasing Repetitions

Increasing the frequency or number of Kegel repetitions beyond a doctor’s recommendation can trigger heightened amounts of urine leakage and/or muscle fatigue, according to Medline Plus.

Discomfort

Generally speaking, any feeling of discomfort while performing Kegel exercises is a sign of improper technique, Medline Plus reports.

Considerations

A doctor or other health care professional can usually help recommend different ways to improve the effectiveness of Kegel exercises, the Mayo Clinic notes.

References

• The Mayo Clinic: Women's Health - Kegel Exercises: How to Strengthen Pelvic Floor Muscles
• Medline Plus - U.S. National Library of Medicine - National Institutes of Health: Kegel Exercises

Resources

• Medline Plus - U.S. National Library of Medicine: Kegel Exercises - Self-Care