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Kegel exercises: A how-to guide for women
When to do your Kegels
Make Kegel exercises part of your daily routine. You can do Kegel exercises discreetly just about anytime, whether you're sitting at your desk or relaxing on the couch. You might make a practice of fitting in a set every time you do a routine task, such as checking email.
When you're having trouble
If you're having trouble doing Kegel exercises, don't be embarrassed to ask for help. Your doctor or other health care provider can give you important feedback so that you learn to isolate and exercise the correct muscles.
In some cases, biofeedback training might help. During a biofeedback session, your doctor or other health care provider inserts a small probe into your vagina or rectum. As you relax and contract your pelvic floor muscles, a monitor will measure and display your pelvic floor activity.
When to expect results
If you do Kegel exercises regularly, you can expect results — such as less frequent urine leakage — within about a few months. For continued benefits, make Kegel exercises a permanent part of your daily routine.
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