Frequently Asked Questions About Kegel Weights
So, you're want to get started with Kegel Weights and you have some questions? take a peek through some of our most frequently asked questions and our expert advice. No question is a silly question and you'll probably be surprised to see many of the questions you have already on this list.
If you want to ask something that isn't covered in this list then we'd love to chat! Email us at admin@secretwhispers.co.uk or DM us on any of our socials. We are passionate about spreading knowledge and educating people on the pelvic floor, it's importance and how to look after it!
Do I need to use lubricant with Kegel Weights?
Totally your decision! Many women find using lubricant or wetting the Weights with water before inserting works best for them. If you suffer from vaginal atrophy and vaginal dryness perhaps from medication, treatment or from the menopause then we would recommend you use some water based lubricant or water on the weights to ensure you don’t have any discomfort . Your brand or type of lubricant is up to you but make sure that you only use a water based lubricant as silicone based lubricants can damage the Weights.
How long before I see an improvement?
Some women begin to feel results as quickly as 1-2 weeks, but generally most women will take 3-4 weeks of consistent use to see an improvement. Others can take many months. It all depends on the strength of your pelvic floor and the effort you put in. Consistency is key! Your pelvic floor is a muscle like any other and the results will depend on the effort you put in.
Can I use Kegel Weights if I have a prolapse?
Yes. If you have a pelvic organ prolapse or prolapses you should always try a non-invasive option before considering surgery. Always seek medical advice if needed.
Our Kegel Weights are ideal for all types of pelvic floor prolapse, including cystocele (bladder prolapse – when the bladder bulges into the front wall of the vagina), rectocele (rectum prolapse – when the rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina), uterine prolapse (when the uterus hangs down in the vagina) and Vault prolapse (after a hysterectomy has been performed, the top (or vault) of the vagina may bulge down. The Weights help push the organs back into place while you exercise your pelvic floor, so you will likely feel some relief while using them.
Can I use Kegel Weights during my period?
It's safe to use your weights during your time of the month. You can certainly continue to use them if you want to but from our standpoint, it's not necessary.
You aren't going to undo all of your hard work during this time. Just continue to do your natural Kegels, practicing without your weights. Then, return back to your regular routine using the weights as soon as your period has ended. If you do decide to use your Kegel Weights during your period, make sure to give them an extra deep clean.
Can I use Kegel Weights while pregnant?
As long as you have no pelvic pain or medical issues then it's perfectly safe for you to use your Kegel Weights when pregnant. Pregnancy can really weaken your pelvic floor so keeping up with your exercises during this time can be really beneficial to you, and even lead to an easier delivery! If in doubt, seek medical assistance.
Can I use Kegel Weights with an IUD/ Coil ?
Yes you shouldn’t have any problems. An IUD or coil sits above your cervix with tiny strings extending out into the vagina. Kegel Weights sit much lower, below the cervix and in the vagina and are unlikely to come into contact with the strings. The Weights will not come into contact with the IUD/coil itself. If you’re unsure, seek medical assistance.
Can I use Kegel Weights after a hysterectomy?
Yes definitely. After a hysterectomy, your pelvic floor muscles will be weakened and your chance of a pelvic organ prolapse increased. Using Kegel Weights are the perfect way to strengthen your pelvic floor after a hysterectomy which in turn helps your organs stay supported and incontinence issues avoided or improved.
What are the different types of Kegel Exercises?
There are 3 Types of Kegels – the slow, the Fast and the Knack. These are the types of Kegel exercises that you should do. Combine the slow and fast contractions - known as Kegels for a total of 15 minutes everyday when wearing your weights.
Slow Kegels:
Helps to increase the strength of your pelvic floor. They help your muscles to hold back your 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 Kegels:
Helps your pelvic floor to cope with pressure, for example when you cough, sneeze, or laugh (Not to mention the trampoline!). These fast contractions work the muscles that quickly shut off the flow of urine.
- Lift your pelvic floor muscles quickly
- Hold the muscles tight for 1 second
- Relax your muscles and rest for 1 second
- Repeat this 10 times
The 'knack':
This method is known as ‘bracing’ yourself (by squeezing up and holding) before you cough, laugh, sneeze or lift anything (or anything else which causes you to leak urine).
What if my Kegel Weights fall out or fall down?
Firstly ensure that you have inserted them far enough. You cannot insert them too far and they can't get lost. Insert as you would a tampon. They will come down a little to their natural resting place, they need to sit on the pelvic floor.
These smooth super soft weights are held in place due to the automatic contraction of the pelvic floor muscles. Your pelvic floor muscles engage to stop them falling out.
If they do slip down or fall out - firstly, don't panic! (it has happened to women who thought they had a good pelvic floor..), just simply insert again and do the Kegel contractions (the slow and fast Kegels) while lying down until you have strengthened your pelvic floor to a stage that you can then walk around with them in. Over time your pelvic floor muscles are strengthened simply by keeping the weight from falling out and doing the Kegel contractions - the slow and fast contractions.
We hope you enjoyed this blog, why not check out Everything You Need To Know About Kegel Weights or How Your Gut Health Impacts Your Pelvic Floor
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