What exercises can I do during pregnancy to make labor easier?
By Roy Pitkin, M.D.
One of the best is the Kegel, an exercise you should do throughout your pregnancy. Kegel exercises strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. They not only help during labor, but also will speed your recovery after delivery.
To do a Kegel exercise, tighten the muscles of your vagina as though you were stopping a flow of urine. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Try to do a set of 10, repeating the set several times a day. You can do them in the car, at the stove, at your desk, lying in bed, absolutely anywhere -- and no one will notice.
Roy Pitkin, M.D.
OB/GYN
Roy Pitkin, M.D., is a professor of obstetrics and
gynecology and is the former chair of the ob/gyn
department at the University of California, Los
Angeles School of Medicine. He is a frequent advisor
to national health agencies on women's health issues and has
received numerous international honors for this work.
