Abdominal Pain and Vaginal Gas After Kegel Exercises

Abdominal and vaginal gas expulsion?

I would like to ask the doctor, recently when I do Kegel exercises in the morning, I feel pain in the area just below the navel and near the pubic bone on the right side, but pressing gently on the left side does not cause pain.
However, after doing this exercise twice, the pain disappears.
What could this condition be? After completing 4 sets of Kegel exercises, I notice a sound of air escaping from the vagina.
I researched online and found that vaginitis could be a possible cause.
My discharge has been sometimes yellow and sometimes clear.
Could this be vaginitis?

Ru, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/20

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Recently, I experienced pain in the lower right abdomen near the pubic bone while doing Kegel exercises in the morning.
Pressing gently on the left side does not cause pain, but after doing this exercise twice, the pain subsides.
What could this condition be? Answer: An ultrasound examination is needed to determine the cause.
2.
My vaginal discharge has been sometimes yellow and sometimes clear.
Could this be vaginitis? Answer: A wet mount examination is needed to find out.
3.
After completing four sets of Kegel exercises, I noticed a sound of air being expelled from the vagina.
Answer: The purpose of Kegel exercises is to strengthen the muscle tone by stretching the pelvic floor's pubococcygeus muscle.
The actions performed by the pubococcygeus muscle include interrupting urine flow and contracting to stop bowel movements.
Repeatedly performing these muscle actions can enhance the strength of the pubococcygeus muscle.
The action of slowing or stopping urine flow can be used as a test for correcting pelvic floor exercise techniques, but it should not be used as a regular practice to avoid urinary retention.
Kegel exercises are considered an effective method for women to treat vaginal prolapse and prevent uterine prolapse.
They can also help with fecal incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse issues.
Since Kegel exercises stretch the pubococcygeus muscle to enhance muscle tone, they can also expel residual air from the vagina.

Reply Date: 2017/04/20

More Info

Understanding abdominal pain and vaginal gas after Kegel exercises can be quite concerning, especially when you experience discomfort in the lower abdomen and unusual sounds during or after the exercises. Let's break down your symptoms and explore potential causes and solutions.

Abdominal Pain During Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises are designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. When performed correctly, they should not cause pain. However, if you are experiencing pain in the lower abdomen, particularly near the pubic bone, it may indicate a few possibilities:
1. Muscle Strain: If you are new to Kegel exercises or have recently increased the intensity or frequency, you might be straining the pelvic floor muscles or surrounding abdominal muscles. This strain can lead to discomfort, especially if the muscles are not accustomed to the exercise.

2. Incorrect Technique: It's crucial to perform Kegel exercises correctly. If you are inadvertently engaging other muscle groups (like the abdominal muscles) instead of isolating the pelvic floor, this could lead to discomfort. Focus on tightening the pelvic floor muscles without holding your breath or tensing your abdomen.

3. Underlying Conditions: If the pain persists or worsens, it could be indicative of an underlying condition such as pelvic floor dysfunction, hernias, or even issues related to the bladder or reproductive organs. Consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation would be wise.

Vaginal Gas and Discharge
The sound of gas or air escaping from the vagina during Kegel exercises can be surprising but is generally not a cause for concern. This phenomenon, often referred to as "vaginal flatulence," can occur when air is trapped in the vagina and released during muscle contractions. This is more common in women who have given birth or have a relaxed pelvic floor.

Regarding your discharge, variations in color and consistency can occur for several reasons:
1. Normal Variation: Vaginal discharge can naturally change throughout your menstrual cycle. Clear, stretchy discharge is typical during ovulation, while a thicker, yellowish discharge may occur at other times.

2. Infection: If the discharge has a strong odor, is accompanied by itching, burning, or significant discomfort, it could indicate a vaginal infection, such as bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. In such cases, it is essential to seek medical advice.

3. Vaginitis: Inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis) can cause changes in discharge and may be associated with discomfort. This can be due to infections, irritants, or hormonal changes.

Recommendations
1. Technique Review: Consider consulting a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor health. They can help ensure you are performing Kegel exercises correctly and provide guidance tailored to your needs.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including the nature of the pain, any changes in discharge, and any other accompanying symptoms. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If the abdominal pain persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as fever, significant changes in discharge, or urinary issues), it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider. They may perform a pelvic exam, run tests, and provide a diagnosis.

4. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s good to research symptoms, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety. Always seek professional advice for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

In conclusion, while Kegel exercises are beneficial, any pain or unusual symptoms should be addressed with a healthcare professional to rule out any serious conditions and ensure you are exercising safely and effectively.

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