Pelvic floor exercises are important after giving birth, regardless of the delivery method, including C-section. During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles can become weakened or damaged, leading to problems such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, help to strengthen and tone these muscles, which can improve bladder and bowel control, support the pelvic organs, and enhance sexual function.
In addition to the physical changes that occur during pregnancy and childbirth, a C-section delivery also involves abdominal surgery, which can further weaken the pelvic floor muscles. It's important to start pelvic floor exercises as soon as possible after delivery, including after a C-section, to promote healing and prevent long-term issues.
To perform pelvic floor exercises, first identify your pelvic floor muscles by trying to stop the flow of urine midstream. Once you have located the muscles, contract and hold them for 3-5 seconds, then release for the same amount of time. Repeat this cycle for 10-15 repetitions, several times per day. As you get stronger, you can increase the duration of the contractions and the number of repetitions.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Judith Ong, Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
MBBS (Singapore), MRCOG (UK), M.Med O&G (Singapore), FAMS (O&G), M.Med Sexual and Reproductive Health (Sydney)