Kegel exercises have always been prescribed for women because they tone the pelvic floor muscles that support the uterus. But according to urologist Des Moines Dr. Fawad Zafar, Kegel exercises are not just for women anymore.
Studies have shown that pelvic floor exercises can help treat incontinence and perhaps even sexual dysfunction in men. People typically do cardio exercises for their heart, and strength training to improve their six-pack, but the pelvic floor is neglected. And these muscles are actually the basis of sexual and urinary health.
Men have the same system of pelvic floor muscles as women, which extend like a hammock from the tailbone to the pubic bone. And according to urologist Des Moines, these muscles provide support for the back, abdomen, bladder and bowel, and help sustain fecal and urinary continence.
In men, these muscles surround the base of the penis and they are responsible for the surge of blood flow to the penis, and are thereby stimulated during erection, orgasm and ejaculation.
Your urologist Des Moines advises that like all muscles, the pelvic floor muscles weaken with age. In order to strengthen them, men are instructed to tighten the muscles they might normally use to cut off the flow of urine midstream or prevent passing gas. The contractions should be held for a few seconds, and then released, with the movement repeated 10 to 15 times for each workout.
While some supporters believe Kegels can enhance erections and orgasms, there’s not much evidence to support the claim. But clinical trials have revealed they can be beneficial for men with one of the most common sexual disorders – premature ejaculation. And some experiments suggest Kegel exercise may actually help restore potency in men who suffer from erectile dysfunction.
For most men lifestyle changes are the surest route to a better sex life. Yet there is strong evidence that pelvic floor exercises are important for men who undergo a radical prostatectomy and are at high risk for incontinence.
If you’re interested in more information or have any concerns you’d like to discuss, call the office of urologist Des Moines Dr. Fawad Zafar to schedule a consultation.