Rethinking Kegels in Pregnancy: Evidence, Nuance, and What Your Body Actually Needs
Description
The internet turned pelvic floor training into a turf war—“always Kegels” on one side, “never Kegels” on the other. We cut through the noise with a clear, evidence-backed framework that shows how to build strength, practice relaxation, and keep moving with confidence through pregnancy.
We start by grounding the conversation in what the research actually supports: pelvic floor muscle training can reduce postpartum urinary incontinence and help many pregnant athletes and recreational movers maintain function as load increases. From there, we zoom out to the system that matters most—the diaphragm, abdominals, hips, and pelvic floor—and explain why coordination beats clenching. You’ll hear how to choose your focus based on your starting point, what symptoms to watch, and why both contraction and full release are essential skills for labor, lifting, and daily life.
Together, we map a practical plan you can live with: simple tests to decide when to prioritize strengthening, how to practice relaxation without overthinking it, and easy “habit cues” to fit training into a full schedule. We also challenge the myth that strengthening blocks relaxation during pushing and show how education and timing are the real game changers. Whether you’re entering pregnancy with previous leaks or feeling strong and symptom-free, you’ll learn how to adapt training to your week, trust your body’s signals, and stay aligned with long-term pelvic health.
If this helped you drop the confusion and find your middle ground, follow the show, share it with a friend who lifts, and leave a quick review with your biggest takeaway. Your questions shape future episodes—what should we unpack next?
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