Your session is about to expire
Understanding How To Use Ben Wa Balls
Introduction to Ben Wa Balls and Who Can Use Them Safely
Ben Wa balls, also known as Kegel balls or vaginal weightlifting equipment, are small, marble-sized balls. They can be made of various materials such as metal, glass, or silicone. People insert them into the vagina for several reasons, including to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, enhance sexual pleasure, or aid in recovery post-childbirth. The use of these balls involves holding them inside by tensing the pelvic floor muscles.
- Adults Seeking Pelvic Floor Strengthening: Individuals looking to improve their pelvic floor strength can utilize Ben Wa balls. This group includes those experiencing urinary incontinence or seeking enhancement in sexual experiences.
- Postpartum Recovery: After childbirth, women may utilize Ben Wa balls to help tone and recover their pelvic floor muscle strength, pending approval from a healthcare provider.
- With Medical Consultation: The use of Ben Wa balls for therapeutic purposes (like combating prolapse symptoms) requires a consultation with a health professional.
However, there are individuals for whom the use of Ben Wa Balls may not be appropriate:
- Those with active pelvic infections
- Pregnant individuals without explicit approval from a healthcare provider
- Individuals immediately after surgery in the vaginal area
Utilization of these devices requires knowledge of one's own body and health status. Selection should ideally start with lightweight and larger-sized options, progressing gradually. Cleanliness is crucial to prevent infections.
Preparing and Inserting Kegel Balls Correctly
Kegel balls are small, weighted balls designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. Proper preparation and insertion of these balls are crucial for their effectiveness and comfort.
-
Preparation involves selecting the appropriate size and weight according to the user's experience level, with beginners recommended to opt for larger, lighter balls.
- It is important to clean the Kegel balls with soap and water before use.
- Application of a water-based lubricant on the balls may facilitate easier insertion.
-
For insertion, a comfortable position is suggested, such as lying down or squatting.
- It is important for the body to be relaxed, especially the pelvic floor muscles.
- The balls should be gently inserted one at a time into the vagina, pushing them upwards towards the cervix but not too deeply - they should position themselves below the midline of the vagina where they can be naturally clenched.
It is beneficial for normal breathing to be maintained throughout this process, as staying calm can assist in reducing any discomfort that may accompany the introduction of new exercises.
Find Top Clinical Trials
Choose from over 30,000 active clinical trials.
Activities and Pelvic Exercises While Wearing Kegel Balls
Wearing Kegel balls, known as Ben Wa balls or vaginal weights, is a method to enhance pelvic floor exercises. These small, weighted balls are designed to strengthen the muscles supporting the uterus, bladder, and bowels. Integrating them into a routine can be simple and effective.
Kegel balls can be worn during various daily activities to improve muscle tone. Activities such as walking around the house, performing chores, or going for a leisurely stroll are suitable opportunities for their use. The natural movement of the body causes the balls to shift slightly, which prompts pelvic floor contractions, thereby strengthening these muscles over time.
- Beginning with 15 minutes a day and gradually increasing the duration is a common approach.
- Utilizing water-based lubricant during insertion can be considered for comfort.
- Maintaining good posture may enhance muscle engagement.
Traditional Kegels: The act of contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles while sitting or standing can be more challenging with Kegel balls. They add a form of resistance akin to weights in other physical training.
-
Squeeze & Hold: With the balls inserted:
- Engage the pelvic floor muscles for five seconds.
- Then relax for another five seconds.
- This process is often repeated 10 times per session.
-
Bridge Pose: While lying on the back with knees bent:
- Place feet flat on the ground hip-width apart.
- After inserting the Kegel balls, lift the hips towards the ceiling while engaging those muscles.
- This pose is typically held for three breaths before lowering down slowly.
-
Standing Leg Raise: Incorporating leg movements can increase the difficulty:
- From a standing position, raise one leg at a time while maintaining balance.
- Each lift should coincide with a tight squeeze of the pelvic floor muscles.
It is often suggested to start slow when incorporating new tools into exercise routines—especially internal ones like Kegel balls—to minimize discomfort or injury. In the event of pain, halting the activity is a common recommendation.
A regular practice is generally associated with better results in strengthening pelvic floor health.
Enhancing Solo Pleasure and Incorporating Into Partner Play
Exploring solo pleasure is a fundamental aspect of understanding one's body, desires, and the pathways to personal satisfaction. It involves recognizing what stimulates an individual, which can significantly enhance overall well-being and intimacy in partner play. Familiarization with one's own body through exploration is a key step. This self-awareness allows for a more open dialogue about desires when engaging with a partner.
Incorporating these discoveries into partner play requires communication and consent. Insights about touch preferences, pressure points that trigger pleasure, and fantasies that heighten excitement can be shared. This exchange not only deepens connection but also enriches the shared experience by introducing new dimensions to explore together.
- Experimentation plays a crucial role; trying out different techniques or toys can add novelty and excitement.
- The effects of solo techniques might vary when applied in a partnered context due to the changing emotional dynamics and physical interaction patterns.
The journey of solo exploration and its incorporation into partnered experiences is an ongoing process of learning—about oneself and each other—and adapting over time.
Safely Removing, Cleaning, and Storing Kegel Balls
Kegel balls are tools used for strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. Proper handling is essential to prevent infections or injuries. This includes correct removal, cleaning, and storage methods.
Removing Kegel Balls
It is important to have clean hands before removal. Relaxation of the body and muscles facilitates easier removal. If the balls are equipped with a retrieval loop or string, it should be gently pulled while squatting or sitting to avoid discomfort.
Cleaning Kegel Balls
After removal:
- Hands should be washed with soap.
- Warm water and mild antibacterial soap can be used to clean the balls thoroughly.
- They should then be rinsed under running water to ensure all soap residues are removed.
- A lint-free cloth is recommended for drying them completely.
Kegel balls made of silicone, glass, or metal without electronic components or batteries can be boiled in water for 3-5 minutes for deep cleaning on an occasional basis.
It is essential to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning due to variations in materials.
Storing Kegel Balls
Once cleaned and dried:
- A dry place away from direct sunlight is suitable for storage to prevent degradation of the material over time.
- A breathable pouch is recommended for storage to minimize exposure to dust while allowing air circulation.
- Storage near sharp objects should be avoided to prevent damage to their surface.
Adhering to these steps after each use is crucial for maintaining the safety and effectiveness of kegel balls in pelvic health maintenance without the risk of infections or other complications.