Why Kegels and Biofeedback Aren’t Enough for Pelvic Floor Rehab

If you’ve been told that doing Kegels or using biofeedback is all you need to heal your pelvic floor, you’re not getting the full picture. While these tools have their place, they aren’t a complete solution—especially for moms navigating pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. Here’s why a more comprehensive approach is essential for true healing and strength.

1. Not Every Pelvic Floor Needs Strengthening

Kegels focus on tightening the pelvic floor muscles, but many women—especially postpartum—actually have muscles that are too tight or imbalanced. If your pelvic floor is overactive, adding more tension through repetitive Kegels can make issues like pain, leakage, and discomfort worse.

2. Biofeedback Doesn’t Teach Functional Movement

Biofeedback can help you learn how to activate your pelvic floor, but it doesn’t train your body for real-life movements like lifting your baby, carrying a toddler, or pushing during labor. True pelvic floor rehab involves retraining these muscles to work with your core, hips, and breath in everyday activities.

3. A Strong Core and Breath Work Matter More Than You Think

Your pelvic floor doesn’t work in isolation—it’s part of a system that includes your core and diaphragm. If you’re not breathing properly or your deep core isn’t engaged, Kegels alone won’t fix leaking, prolapse, or pain. Learning how to coordinate these muscles is key to long-term recovery.

4. Movement and Strength Training Create Lasting Results

Rehab should help you move confidently in your daily life, not just squeeze muscles in a sitting position. Functional exercises that strengthen your entire body—while addressing posture, alignment, and core stability—offer better results than Kegels or biofeedback alone.

The Bottom Line: A Whole-Body Approach Wins

Instead of relying solely on Kegels or biofeedback, your pelvic floor therapist should focus on restoring balance, strength, and function throughout your body. At Foundation Physical Therapy, we take a full-body approach to help you heal, regain confidence, and move without pain.

If you're pregnant or postpartum and want expert guidance beyond the basics, schedule an appointment today—we're here to help you rock pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood so you and your family can thrive.