Comparison of self-reported ability to perform Kegel's exercise pre- and post-coital penetration in postpartum women.

We compared the self-reported ability to perform Kegel's exercises pre- and post-coital penetration in postpartum women. A cross-sectional design. Twenty-seven postpartum women with mild urinary incontinence were recruited. Measures included perceived strength of pelvic floor muscle contraction (Strength of Contraction [SOC] scale] and ease of performing Kegel's exercises (Ease of Performance [EOP] scale). These measures as well as information on attaining orgasm were collected in one session, pre- and post-coital penetration. Findings showed that both measures (SOC and EOP) varied significantly (p < 0.001) pre- and post-coital penetration, with decreasing values post-coitus. Additionally, the outcomes of both measures showed no significant differences (p < 0.05) between women who reached orgasm and those who did not. Self-reported ability to perform Kegel's exercise immediately after coital penetration is reported to affect the appropriateness of its performance and effective outcomes. Thus, women should be discouraged from performing Kegel's exercises immediately post-coitus.

Comparative effects of selected abdominal and lower limb exercises in the recruitment of the pelvic floor muscles: Determining adjuncts to Kegel's exercises.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the electrical activities of the pelvic floor muscles in response to selected abdominal and hip adductor exercises, using the Kegel's maneuver as a gold standard, to compare the efficacies of these maneuvers in pelvic floor muscles recruitment to guide their informed utilization as adjuncts for Kegel's exercises. METHOD: Twenty-one postpartum mothers with recent vaginal deliveries performed six trials, including the typical Kegel's exercise; two abdominal exercises (curl-up and abdominal hollowing); two hip adductor exercises (adductor ball squeeze and auto-resisted hip adduction); and a combination of abdominal, hip adductor and pelvic floor muscle contractions (combo). Pelvic floor muscles activities were monitored via surface electromyography during each 5-s trial. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics and inferential statistics of one way ANOVA at p < 0.05. RESULTS: Generally, the pelvic floor muscles were statistically significantly (p < 0.001) most active during the combo trial, compared to other trials. Comparing the two abdominals, Kegel's and combo trials, pelvic floor muscles activity was least during the curl-up contraction (p < 0.001). On the other hand, Kegel's trial elicited the lowestpelvic floor muscles activity when compared with the combo and two adductor trials (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Abdominal and hip adductor exercises are recommended adjuncts of Kegel's exercise but the combo maneuver was the most effective in activating the pelvic floor muscles.