The benefits of Kegel exercises in menopause

Menopause is a physiological event in every woman's life due to the decrease in oestrogen and consequently the end of menstruation. Hormonal changes cause major changes in the body that can lead to a number of disorders, including in the pelvic floor.
The pelvic floor muscles serve to support the bladder, rectum and uterus in women; during the menopause they lose tone.
Loss of muscle tone in the pelvic floor can result in a number of problems such as urinary incontinence, recurrent cystitis, vaginal dryness and pain during sexual intercourse.
Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles helps reduce these problems. Kegel exercises (from the doctor who devised them) are specific exercises for the tone of the pelvic floor, which help women better cope with the change that occurs during menopause. Kegel exercises help control urinary incontinence, prevent uterine prolapse and help improve sex life. Some simple exercises help to promote lubrication, body awareness and rediscover pleasure during sexual intercourse.
Simple controlled movements are required to perform Kegel exercises:
- Empty the bladder completely;
- Contract the pelvic floor muscles for 5-10 seconds;
- Slowly release these muscles for the same period of time.
Repeat the series 10 times, 2-3 times during the day.
There are specific conditions where Kegel exercises are contraindicated; we recommend that you consult your gynaecologist before performing them.