1 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 29
Summary
Reverse Kegels—pelvic floor relaxation rather than squeezing—may help people with hypertonic, or overly tight, pelvic floor muscles that can worsen with standard Kegels.
Small studies cited in the report found down-training and relaxation programs improved pelvic floor tightness symptoms after three months or eight sessions, though research remains limited.
Key signs of tightness include pain while peeing, pain during sex, constipation and urinating more often than every 3 hours; leaking urine and back or pelvic pain can overlap with weakness.
LoConti advises 10 slow reps a day: lightly contract, then fully relax without bearing down, and says even 1 or 2 therapy sessions can help determine whether strengthening or relaxation is needed.