For many women, the first time they hear the term "kegel exercises" is when they get pregnant — but that could all change with the creation of a new device.
The Kgoal Smart Kegel Trainer, which is currently in the midst of a successful Kickstarter campaign, is an electronic device meant to help women tone their pelvic muscles in much the same way as other fitness apps help people on their daily runs.
The premise is this: women insert the device into their vaginas and squeeze their pelvic muscles in such a way as to strengthen them. The device vibrates in order to give biofeedback as to whether or not the exercise is being done correctly (and uh, we imagine, for a bit of pleasure as well). The associated app then shows the numbers of reps you've done, whether you've surpassed your previous workouts and even your average squeeze time.
As specific as this sounds, it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise for people who are very into fitness, or who have been battling pelvic floor issues in their life. Vaginal weights to strengthen the pelvic floor have been around for a while, and pelvic floor physiotherapy is becoming increasingly prevalent.
Mind you, it's not as simple as doing a few squeezes and stopping incontinence and having better orgasms instantaneously. Some people battle hypertonic (or overly tense) pelvic floors, in which case kegels will only serve to worsen the problem. If you find you're having problems in the vaginal area (which includes urination issues, burning sensations and more), don't opt for this device-and-app combo — get yourself checked out by a professional who can help.
How To Keep Your Vagina Healthy
You Don't Want To Smell Like Flowers(01 of07)
Open Image Modal"Avoid all sprays, lotions and deodorants in this area. It is not supposed to smell like flowers," says Stacy Lyon, founder of natural feminine care products Healthy Hoo Hoo. Some baby wipes and feminine hygiene wipes could lead to irritation. Lyon also says not to use pads and panty-liners everyday to feel fresh. "Constant use causes skin irritation and prevents the skin from breathing in the area." (credit:Shutterstock)
Wipe From The Front(02 of07)
Open Image ModalAlways wipe from front to back. . "Wiping wrong drags butt bacteria forward and it can get in the wrong spot creating irritation and an infection," she says. (credit:Shutterstock)
Avoid Certain Lubricants(03 of07)
Open Image ModalAvoid using Vaseline, rubbing alcohol and other heavy-duty lubricants in the area. "Choose water-based lubricants or silicone-based lubricants," she says. (credit:Shutterstock)
Look For Change(04 of07)
Open Image Modal"The main signs of an imbalance are change in odour, discharge, appearance, itching or pain during intercourse," Lyon says. (credit:Shutterstock)
Do Your Research(05 of07)
Open Image ModalIf you're heading to a waxing salon for a bikini or Brazilian wax, make sure you do your research. "Make sure you're seen by a licensed esthetician and that they don't double-dip the wax application stick." (credit:ShutterStock)
Take A Look Yourself(06 of07)
Open Image ModalIt's your vagina -- make sure you know everything about it. "I tell ladies to grab a mirror and get acquainted. Look, touch and feel for changes," Lyon says. (credit:ShutterStock)
Talk To Your Doctor(07 of07)
Open Image ModalVisit your gynecologist at least once a year for a health check-up. You may also want to consider getting a pap smear depending on your age and history. (credit:Shutterstock)