Bladder Control Exercises

The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for providing support to the bladder, urethra, bowel, vagina and uterus in women. By learning to squeeze these muscles you can control the sphincter muscles, which are responsible for releasing urine into the urethra and out of the body. These are called pelvic floor muscle exercises, also called Kegel exercises.

For kegel exercises to be effective, you must locate the proper muscles. During urination, try to stop the flow of urine. If you can do this, then your have used your pelvic floor muscles. If you have difficultly locating the proper muscles, consult your physician for help. Use of the wrong muscles can actually worsen incontinence.

As with any exercise program, results will not come overnight. If done properly and on a regular basis (ask your doctor for the number of repetitions best suited for your needs) you should see improvement in stress, urge, or mixed incontinence.