In this video, IntimateRose.com’s Dr. Amanda Olson, certified pelvic floor rehabilitation therapist, demonstrates post-laparoscopic surgery exercises suitable for beginners. These exercises are ideal for anyone recovering from laparoscopic surgeries to the abdomen or the pelvis. However, bear in mind that no two surgeries are the same, so be sure to consult your surgeon to ensure you’re choosing the right exercises to aid in your recovery. Within the first few days of surgery, it’s generally safe to engage in very gentle activation of the pelvic muscles. These exercises are keyed to breathing techniques. Begin by lying flat on your back, either with your legs straight or bent depending on your comfort. Inhale through your nose and then exhale while making a shushing sound, like a deflating car tire. This gently and naturally activates your muscles without causing undue strain. Repeat this ten times in a row before changing the sound you make on exhale – instead of “shh”, begin saying “hut”, with the emphasis on the “t” sound at the end. This sound activates your muscles as well. The final exercise is a basic Kegel, which you do on exhalation. The action can be visualized as imagining your urethra is a telescope and you are trying to retract that telescope up and into your body. Dr. Olson recommends holding that Kegel for 1 to 3 seconds. Further recommendations she makes include doing these exercises 2 to 3 times a day, drinking plenty of water, and getting plenty of rest to help speed our recovery.
