What Are Pelvic Floor Exercises?
Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, are designed to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. These muscles support the bladder, bowel, and for women, the uterus. Strengthening these muscles can improve bladder and bowel control and sexual function.
How Do You Perform Pelvic Floor Exercises?
To perform a basic pelvic floor exercise:
1. Identify the right muscles by stopping your urine flow midstream.
2. Once identified, contract these muscles for three seconds, then relax for three seconds.
3. Repeat this cycle 10-15 times, three times a day.
It's important to avoid holding your breath or tightening your stomach, buttock, or thigh muscles simultaneously.
When Should Cancer Patients Start Doing Pelvic Floor Exercises?
Ideally, patients should begin pelvic floor exercises before starting cancer treatment. This preemptive approach can help in maintaining muscle strength during and after treatment. However, it’s never too late to start, and patients can benefit from these exercises even after treatment has begun or concluded.
Are There Any Contraindications?
Generally, pelvic floor exercises are safe for most individuals. However, patients who have undergone recent surgery or radiation therapy should consult their healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen. Severe pain or discomfort during these exercises may indicate underlying issues that need medical attention.
How Long Before I See Results?
The timeline for seeing results can vary. Most patients start noticing improvements in muscle strength and control within a few weeks to a couple of months of consistent practice. However, individual results may vary based on factors such as the initial muscle condition and the specific type of cancer treatment received.
Can Men Benefit from Pelvic Floor Exercises?
Absolutely. Men undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, for instance, often experience urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Pelvic floor exercises can significantly improve urinary control and sexual health in men as well.
Additional Tips for Success
- Consistency: Make pelvic floor exercises a part of your daily routine.
- Correct Technique: Ensure you are targeting the right muscles; incorrect technique may not yield the desired benefits.
- Professional Guidance: Seek advice from a physiotherapist or your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.
Conclusion
Pelvic floor exercises offer a non-invasive way to manage and alleviate some of the side effects associated with cancer treatments. By strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, patients can improve their quality of life significantly. Always consult with your healthcare provider to tailor an exercise regimen that suits your specific needs and medical condition.
