Pelvic floor exercises like Kegels are often recommended for bladder control, postpartum recovery, & core support. But what many people don’t realize is that they’re not always appropriate for everyone.
Doing these exercises without knowing your pelvic floor condition can sometimes do more harm than good.
When Pelvic Floor Exercises May Not Be Safe
You Have an Overactive Pelvic Floor
If your pelvic floor muscles are already too tight or constantly engaged, adding more contractions (like Kegels) can worsen your symptoms. Signs of an overactive pelvic floor include…
- Pain during intercourse
- Urinary urgency or frequency
- Constipation or incomplete bowel movements
- Difficulty starting urine flow
- Pelvic or tailbone pain
In these cases, relaxation & lengthening exercises, not strengthening are typically more beneficial.
You’re Experiencing Pelvic Pain
If you have chronic pelvic pain, endometriosis, or vaginismus, traditional pelvic floor exercises can increase muscle guarding. This can make your symptoms worse, not better.
Instead, therapy should focus on breathing techniques, gentle stretching, & nervous system regulation.
You’ve Never Been Assessed by a Pelvic Floor Specialist
Pelvic floor dysfunction isn’t always about weakness. Without an assessment, it’s hard to know what your muscles actually need, strengthening, relaxation, or coordination.
Doing the wrong kind of exercise for your body can prolong your recovery or worsen your symptoms.
You Recently Had Surgery or Birth Trauma
After procedures like hysterectomy, C-section, or perineal tearing, it’s crucial to allow time for proper healing. Jumping into pelvic exercises too soon could lead to strain or scar tissue tightness.
Your provider should guide you on when & how to begin safely.
Who Should Be Doing Pelvic Floor Exercises?
These exercises are typically helpful for people with…
- Stress urinary incontinence (leaking when sneezing/laughing)
- Mild pelvic organ prolapse
- Postpartum recovery (after being cleared)
- Weak core & back support
Still, even if you fall into one of these groups, it’s best to get an expert opinion before starting on your own.
What to Do Instead
If you suspect pelvic floor dysfunction but aren’t sure what kind, you should…
- Avoid random online exercise routines
- Focus on full-body movement, posture, & breathwork
- Consult a pelvic floor physical therapist for a custom plan
Expert Pelvic Floor Therapy in Springfield, MO
At Physical Therapy by Phoenix, we evaluate your pelvic floor to determine exactly what it needs, regardless if that’s strengthening, lengthening, or coordination work. Every plan is individualized, gentle, & trauma-informed.
Address – 1839 E. Independence, Ste R, Springfield, MO 65804
Phone – (417) 708-5174
