Kegel exercises target the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, rectum, and sexual organs. These muscles work like a hammock or sling, keeping everything in place and functioning properly. When these muscles are weak, men may experience issues such as urinary leakage, reduced sexual performance, or even erectile dysfunction.

Doing Kegels involves repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, much like you would if you were trying to stop the flow of urine midstream. This simple technique builds strength over time and improves control.

Kegels are often overlooked, but their benefits for men are wide-ranging and impactful.

1. Improved Bladder Control

One of the most well-known benefits is better control over urination. Men who struggle with urinary leakage, whether due to age, prostate surgery, or other conditions, can significantly improve bladder control with consistent Kegel practice.

2. Enhanced Sexual Function

Strong pelvic floor muscles help improve erections by promoting better blood flow to the penis. They also give men more control during intimacy, which can help manage issues like premature ejaculation. Many men find that regular Kegel practice leads to stronger, longer-lasting erections and a boost in overall sexual confidence.

3. Support After Prostate Surgery

Men who undergo prostate surgery often experience urinary incontinence or erectile difficulties as part of recovery. Kegels can be an essential part of rehabilitation, helping to restore muscle control and function.

4. Prevention of Erectile Dysfunction

While Kegels are not a cure-all, they can help reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction by supporting blood flow and pelvic health. When combined with a healthy lifestyle, Kegels act as a preventive tool for long-term sexual function.

5. Better Core and Pelvic Stability

Because the pelvic floor works in conjunction with core muscles, strengthening it can also improve posture, stability, and lower back health. Men who play sports, lift weights, or live active lifestyles may notice better performance and fewer injuries with a stronger pelvic floor.

The best part about Kegels is that they’re simple, discreet, and can be done almost anywhere.

1. Identify the right muscles: The easiest way is to try stopping urination midstream. The muscles you engage are your pelvic floor muscles. (However, don’t practice Kegels while urinating regularly, as this may cause bladder issues.)
2. Contract the muscles: Tighten your pelvic floor muscles and hold for about 5 seconds.
3. Relax: Release the contraction for the same amount of time.
4. Repeat: Aim for 10 repetitions per session, three times a day.

Over time, men can gradually increase the length of contractions and the number of repetitions.

While Kegels are simple, doing them incorrectly may reduce their effectiveness:

• Don’t flex the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs. Focus only on the pelvic floor.
• Don’t hold your breath; breathe naturally during each contraction.
• Avoid overdoing it. Too many repetitions can fatigue the muscles.

Since Kegels require no equipment and can be performed discreetly, men can incorporate them into almost any part of the day, while driving, sitting at a desk, or even watching TV. The key is consistency; results often appear after several weeks to a few months of regular practice.

While Kegels are powerful, they are most effective when combined with other healthy habits:

• Regular exercise to improve circulation
• A balanced diet rich in nutrients for nerve and vascular health
• Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga
• Open communication with a healthcare provider about urinary or sexual health concerns

Kegel exercises are a small investment of time with a big return on health, confidence, and sexual function. By strengthening the pelvic floor, men can enjoy better bladder control, stronger erections, and improved overall well-being.

At Northeast Men’s Health, we recognize how important sexual health and confidence are to a man’s quality of life. For men struggling with erectile dysfunction, Kegel exercises may be part of the solution, but often a comprehensive approach is needed. Our team provides personalized care to identify underlying causes and offer treatments tailored to each individual. If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction or want to improve your pelvic health, Northeast Men’s Health is here to support you every step of the way.

If you’re looking for a men’s health practice that offers erectile dysfunction treatments in New England, contact Northeast Men’s Health today for a consultation. We have locations in Dedham, Massachusetts, Marlborough, Massachusetts, Woburn, Massachusetts, Salem, New Hampshire, Farmington, Connecticut, and Warwick, Rhode Island. We are eager to help you find the appropriate treatment method for your erectile dysfunction.