Which statement describes the correct technique for performing Kegel exercises?

• A. Pretend you are urinating and stop your urine stream intermittently.
• B. Hold your breath and tighten your abdominal muscles during a cough.
• C. Increase fluids to prevent urinary retention.
• D. Perform Valsalva maneuver during urination to strengthen pelvic floor.

Answer: (C)

Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor by deliberately contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles—the muscles you would use to stop the flow of urine. To do them correctly, first identify these muscles by attempting to interrupt urination midstream; this helps you feel the right muscles without using the abdomen or glutes. Once you’ve located them, contract those muscles upward and inward, keeping the rest of your body (abdomen, buttocks, thighs) relaxed. Breathe normally and avoid holding your breath. Hold the contraction for about 5 seconds, then relax for 5 seconds. Start with 10 to 15 reps, several times a day, and gradually increase as you gain strength. Don’t push or strain, and try not to perform Kegels while urinating on a regular basis.

The option about increasing fluids isn’t describing how to perform the exercises; hydration supports urinary tract health but doesn’t teach the pelvic floor contractions. The other statements describe actions like breath-holding, bearing down, or using the wrong muscles, which do not reflect the proper technique for strengthening the pelvic floor.