Ever wondered why Kegel exercises are the talk of the town? Whether you're bouncing back after baby, tackling some pesky bladder issues, or just looking to add a bit of oomph to your intimate moments, Kegel weights - or ben wa balls - are your secret weapon to unlocking pelvic power.
What are Kegel Weights Used For?
Despite coming into the spotlight in the last few decades thanks to shows like Sex and the City, Kegel weights have actually been around for centuries! They're not just for enhancing pleasure; they're a powerhouse for strengthening your pelvic floor muscles. And stronger muscles down yonder means better bladder control, improved recovery post-childbirth, and more powerful orgasms. Let’s dive deeper into some of the amazing ways ben wa balls can improve your health:
Postpartum Recovery
Many women experience weakened pelvic floor muscles after pregnancy and childbirth. This weakening can lead to urinary incontinence and reduced sensation during intimacy which can impact on your self-confidence and quality of life. Kegel weights are fantastic for gently rehabilitating these muscles, helping new moms regain strength and control in the pelvic floor.
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence is a surprisingly common issue that can happen when you sneeze, laugh, or exercise. It's often due to a weakened pelvic floor from pregnancy, birth, menopause or chronic UTI’s. It leaves women constantly worrying about leaking and having to walk around wearing pads, which can cause vaginal irritation in itself. Regular use of ben wa balls can strengthen these muscles, providing better bladder control and reducing those unexpected leaks.
Enhancing Intimate Sensations
A strong pelvic floor isn't just about health but pleasure too. Kegel weights can be a game-changer for those looking to spice things up between the sheets. By toning these muscles, you can expect increased sensitivity and potentially more intense climaxes during intimate moments.
Increased Bowel Control
Kegel weights are also incredibly effective for enhancing bowel control. The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in regulating bowel movements so when these muscles are weak, it can lead to bowel incontinence or constipation. Regular exercises with Kegel weights strengthen these muscles, leading to improved control over bowel movements. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience accidental bowel leakage such as IBS sufferers.
Support During Menopause
Menopause brings about significant hormonal changes that can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. This weakening can lead to urinary incontinence, reduced vaginal elasticity, and even vaginal dryness. Regular use of ben wa balls during this phase can help in maintaining the muscle tone of the pelvic floor. This not only helps in managing incontinence but can also improve vaginal health, potentially alleviating symptoms like dryness and discomfort during intimacy.
Read More: Kegel Weights 101
Types of Kegel Weights
Variety is the spice of life, and this applies to Kegel weights too – from traditional weights to tech-savvy gadgets like BerryLemon's Vibrating Kegel Balls, there’s something for everyone nowadays!
Ben Wa Balls
These are small, weighted balls often made of metal or silicone which come in various sizes and weights. When inserted into the vagina they encourage the pelvic floor muscles to contract and hold them in place by applying constant, gentle pressure.
Best For: Beginners and those looking for a passive way to strengthen their pelvic floor muscles.
Vibrating Kegel Balls
These are similar to standard Kegel balls, but with an added vibration feature. They are typically made of body-safe silicone and are rechargeable. The vibration stimulates the pelvic floor muscles, adding an extra dimension to the strengthening exercise.
Best For: Individuals looking to combine pleasure with pelvic floor training, and those who might need additional sensory feedback.
Graduated Kegel Weights
As the name suggests, graduate kegel balls are a set of weights that increase in size and weight. These are usually cone-shaped and made of medical-grade silicone. The premise is to start with the lightest weight and gradually move to heavier ones as your muscles strengthen.
Best For: Those who want a progressive training system and can commit to regular practice.
Smart Pelvic Floor Exercisers
These high-tech kegel devices connected to apps can provide feedback on your exercise routine. They guide you through exercises, track your progress, and provide real-time feedback.
Best For: Tech-savvy individuals who appreciate data and guided routines.
How To Use Kegel Weights Step-By-Step
Getting started with Kegel weights can feel very daunting, especially if it's the first sexual health apparatus you’ve ever used. But don’t worry, it’s simpler than you think! Here’s everything you need to know about how to use Kegel weights:
Step 1: Find Your Comfort Zone
Choose a comfortable and private space where you can relax, preferably starting in a lying down position. This makes it easier to initially feel and engage your pelvic floor muscles.
Step 2: Prepare Your Kegel Weight
Ensure your Kegel weight is clean, and apply a water-based lubricant for ease of insertion. If you're using a product like BerryLemon's Vibrating Kegel Balls, make sure it's charged and functioning.
Step 3: Insert the Weight
Gently insert the weight into your vagina, similar to inserting a tampon. The weight should sit comfortably inside, not too shallow or too deep. If your weight has a retrieval cord, leave it outside for easy removal later.
Step 4: Engage Your Muscles
Contract your pelvic floor muscles as if you're trying to stop the flow of urine. Hold this squeeze for about 3 to 5 seconds. You should feel the muscles lifting the weight slightly.
Step 5: Relax and Repeat
Relax your muscles for another 3 to 5 seconds. Congratulations, you’ve just completed one repetition! Aim for 10-15 reps per session, but remember it's okay to start with fewer and gradually increase as you build strength.
Step 6: Remove and Clean
Once you’ve completed all reps, relax your muscles and gently remove the weight. If there's a retrieval cord, use it to help with removal. Clean the weight with warm water and gentle soap, and store it in a clean, dry place. Struggling to get it out? Never panic, the vagina is designed to expel foreign objects - it cannot get lost in there! Relax and bear down, hooking the weight with your fingers and gently pulling out.
Step 7: Maintain Consistency
Practice this routine three to four times a week for the best results. Just as with regular physical activity, consistency is key in strengthening your pelvic floor muscles successfully.
Remember, if anything feels uncomfortable or painful, it’s important to stop and consult with a healthcare professional.
Wrapping It Up
We hope this guide has helped you feel more comfortable around using Kegel weights as part of your self-care routine. It goes beyond improving your pelvic health to helping you feel empowered and confident in your own skin. So, here's to you – taking back control, one squeeze at a time!
