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The nurse is teaching a postpartum client how to perform Kegel exercises. What is the purpose of these exercises?

a. Strengthen the abdominal muscles
b. Improve respiratory function
c. Enhance pelvic floor muscle tone
d. Increase flexibility in the lower back

1 Answer

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Final Answer:

The purpose of Kegel exercises is to enhance pelvic floor muscle tone, thus the correct option is c. Enhance pelvic floor muscle tone

Step-by-step explanation:

Kegel exercises, named after Dr. Arnold Kegel who developed them, focus on the pelvic floor muscles.

These muscles form a supportive sling at the base of the pelvis, supporting organs such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The primary goal of Kegel exercises is to strengthen these muscles, promoting better control over urinary and fecal functions.

Postpartum women often experience weakened pelvic floor muscles due to the strain of pregnancy and childbirth.

By engaging in Kegel exercises, they can regain strength in these muscles, preventing issues like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.

The exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, similar to stopping the flow of urine midstream.

This targeted muscle engagement not only aids in preventing and alleviating postpartum issues but also contributes to overall pelvic health.

Regular practice of Kegel exercises is recommended for individuals beyond the postpartum period, especially for women experiencing conditions like stress urinary incontinence.

The simplicity and effectiveness of Kegel exercises make them a valuable tool in promoting women's health and well-being.

The purpose of Kegel exercises is to enhance pelvic floor muscle tone, thus the correct option is c. Enhance pelvic floor muscle tone