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The Difference Between Kegels and a Full Pelvic Floor Program

When it comes to pelvic health, many people think that doing Kegels is the key to a strong, healthy pelvic floor. While Kegels can be a helpful tool, they are just one piece of the puzzle.


Colorful pastel-toned silicone kegels on a pink background, with curved and circular designs.

At Auria Pelvic Health, we want to help you understand why a full pelvic floor program is often the most effective way to support your body.


What Are Kegels?


Kegels are exercises that specifically target the pelvic floor muscles. The goal is usually to strengthen these muscles to improve bladder control, support pelvic organs, or enhance sexual function.


Done correctly, Kegels can be beneficial—but they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution.



Why Kegels Alone May Not Be Enough


1. Muscle Imbalance

The pelvic floor is part of a larger network of muscles, including your core, hips, and back. Strengthening just one area can sometimes create imbalance rather than support.


2. Tension vs. Relaxation

Many people hold tension in their pelvic floor without realizing it. Kegels focus on contraction, but a healthy pelvic floor also needs relaxation and coordination. Too many Kegels without proper guidance can actually make symptoms worse.


3. Individual Needs

Every body is different. Some people benefit from strengthening, others need release and mobility work, and many need a combination. A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works.


What a Full Pelvic Floor Program Includes


A comprehensive pelvic floor program is personalized and multi-dimensional. It may include:


  • Strengthening exercises tailored to your muscles and goals

  • Stretching and release techniques to reduce tension

  • Manual therapy to address pelvic floor tone—hands-on techniques help relax tight muscles, improve mobility, and restore balance and circulation

  • Core and hip integration to support the pelvic floor

  • Breathing and posture work to improve function and reduce pressure

  • Education and guidance for daily activities, sexual health, and prevention


Two people in a cozy room; the doctor of physical therapy talking to the patient lying on a patterned blanket, smiling. Warm lighting, decor includes a horse sculpture.

Why Professional Guidance Matters

Working with a trained pelvic health provider ensures that your exercises are safe, effective, and tailored to your body.


You’ll learn the right technique, timing, and balance between contraction and relaxation—something Kegels alone can’t always provide.



Kegels are a helpful tool, but they’re only one part of a full pelvic floor program. When you combine strength, flexibility, and functional training with professional guidance, you give your pelvic floor the best chance to support your body—and your daily life—fully.


At Auria Pelvic Health, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, helping you move, breathe, and live without pelvic discomfort.




Auria Pelvic Health

8929 S Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 412

Los Angeles, CA 90045

Phone: 310-505-6096


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Article Written By Dr. Sasha Speer, DPT


 
 
 

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