For men, Kegel exercises are the first line of defense against symptoms associated with a weak pelvic floor and/or an overactive bladder. Each exercise is thereby designed to improve the strength of the pelvic floor muscles, which provide support for bladder, bowel, and sexual functions. These exercises can be performed at pretty much any time of day, and in just about any environment (you can even do them while you’re brushing your teeth).

The symptoms of a weak pelvic floor routinely manifest in the wake of radical prostatectomy or ailments such as an overactive bladder and diabetes. However, they can also arise without any adjoining surgery or disease. These symptoms include urinary incontinence, frequent urination, fecal incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and urine leakage during ejaculation (climacturia).

By performing Kegel exercises routinely and properly, men can increase the strength of their pelvic muscles and urethra. As a result, you’re reducing the symptoms associated with a weak pelvic floor or overactive bladder, thereby preventing leakage or fecal incontinence.

Now that we’ve established the reasons for adopting a pelvic floor exercise routine, here comes the hard part: putting that routine into action. The first and most important measure is to locate your pelvic floor muscles, as these are the muscles which you’ll need to strengthen and manage.

For men suffering from a weak pelvic floor or an overactive bladder, you can expect to see results from your Kegel exercises within a few weeks to a few months. That means a decrease in urinary leakage, among other things. If it doesn’t happen right away, stick with the program. And even after you do start to see results: stick with the program.