Do Kegel Exercises Really Work? What You Should Know

Medically reviewed: August 30, 2026

Kegel exercises are often recommended for urine leakage and pelvic-floor weakness. You may also see claims that they can improve sexual function.

But Kegels are not simply about squeezing the pelvic-floor muscles again and again.

These muscles need to be strong, but they also need to relax and work at the right time.

Quick Answer

Yes, Kegel exercises can help, especially for some types of urinary incontinence. But they are not suitable for every pelvic-floor problem.

Doing Kegels correctly matters more than simply doing more repetitions.

Can Kegels Make Things Worse?

They aren’t appropriate for every pelvic-floor problem. Not every pelvic-floor problem is caused by weak muscles. Some people have pelvic-floor muscles that are overactive or difficult to relax.

If Kegels cause or increase pelvic pain, pressure, difficulty urinating, pain during sex or other symptoms, don’t just keep increasing the repetitions.

In that situation, an assessment may be more useful than simply doing more Kegels.

What Are Kegel Exercises?

Kegels are exercises for the pelvic-floor muscles. These muscles sit at the bottom of the pelvis and help with bladder and bowel control.

To perform a basic Kegel, gently contract the pelvic-floor muscles, hold for a short time, and then relax completely.

Try to keep your breathing normal while doing it. Your stomach, thighs and buttocks should not be doing most of the work.

One important point: don’t practise Kegels by repeatedly stopping your urine flow while using the toilet. This is sometimes suggested as a way to find the muscles, but it should not become your regular exercise.

Do Kegels Help With Urine Leakage?

Pelvic-floor muscle training has an established role in managing urinary incontinence, particularly when it is prescribed and performed correctly.

Men can also benefit from pelvic-floor training. It is commonly used during rehabilitation for urinary leakage after prostate surgery.

Results are not identical for everyone, though. Your symptoms, muscle strength and ability to perform the exercise correctly all matter.

How Many Kegels Should You Do?

There isn’t one number that works for everyone.

For women with stress or mixed urinary incontinence, NICE recommends a supervised pelvic-floor muscle training programme, generally lasting at least three months.

Your physiotherapist may adjust the exercises depending on how well you can contract and relax the muscles.

The Bottom Line

Kegels can be useful, but more is not always better.

The goal is to have a pelvic floor that can contract when needed and relax when needed.

If you’re unsure whether weakness or excessive tension is contributing to your symptoms, get assessed rather than blindly increasing your Kegel exercises.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for general educational purposes and does not replace an individual medical or physiotherapy assessment. If you have persistent pelvic, urinary, bowel or sexual symptoms, consult a qualified healthcare professional.