Kegel balls and jiggle balls have been creating quite the stir in the world of sexual wellness lately. These small but mighty spheres are more than just novelty items – they're handy tools for improving pelvic floor strength as well as helping out in having great sex. But what exactly are they, and why are people so excited about them?
- Kegel balls, also known as Ben Wa balls or vaginal weights, are small weighted spheres, made for use inside the vagina. They come in loads of sizes, weights, and materials. Anything from silicone to metal. The main idea is to hold them in place using your pelvic floor muscles, a bit like weight training. It's like taking your vagina to the gym, but way more discreet and comfortable!
- Jiggle balls, on the other hand, are pretty much the same but with an added twist – quite literally. These balls contain smaller weighted ones inside them that move around when you move, creating a slight vibration or "jiggle" sensation. This not only offers some stimulation, but also pushes your muscles to work harder to keep them in place. You can think of them like a PT for your vagina!
The buzz around these products isn't just about pleasure (although don’t write that part off). The thing is, your pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in overall health and well-being. According to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK, strong pelvic muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus, helping to prevent issues like incontinence and prolapse. They're play a healthy role in sexual function and satisfaction.
But why use these balls instead of just doing regular kegel exercises? Well, put it this way. It's a like using weights at the gym instead of just doing bodyweight exercises. Don’t get us wrong – crunches are great, but weighted crunches take things to the next level. The added resistance helps you target and strengthen your muscles more effectively.
On top of this, the feeling from the balls confirms that you're engaging the right muscles – something many people struggle with when doing kegel exercises on their own. Feel the burn, girl!
Whether you're looking to boost your sexual health, improve your pelvic floor strength, or just explore a new sensation, kegel balls and jiggle balls might be worth a try. Just remember, if you’re new to this, start low and slow, always listen to your body, and talk to some healthcare professionals if you have any other concerns.
Knowing the Difference: Kegel Balls vs. Jiggle Balls
Kegel balls, jiggle balls, love eggs and remote control vibrators - they might sound like they're part of the same family, and in many ways, they are. They’re all made to be put in the vagina, and can also help build your pelvic muscles. There are some key differences that set these two types of intimate tools apart, though. Let’s get into it.
Kegel balls are normally circle or egg-shaped weights which give resistance to those key muscles. They come in a series of sizes and weights. Going back to the gym analogy, you can think of the weights and sizes like moving up the dumbbell rack as you get stronger.
Some are connected by a string for easy removal, like a tampon, while others are single spheres. The main goal here is to hold the ball in place using your pelvic muscles, which in turn, strengthens them up.
Jiggle balls on the other hand, take things a step further. As mentioned above, the weighted balls within the balls move around when you do, which creates a nice feeling. It doesn’t only provide pleasure, but also aids your pelvic muscles to work harder in order to keep them in place.
So, while kegel balls are all about strength training, jiggle balls add a cheeky element of sensory fun to the mix. It's a bit like the difference between doing squats and doing squats on a vibrating platform – both will work your muscles, but one adds more movement.
Another difference lies in how they're used. Since the kegel variety is for progressive training, they normally come in sets. The different weights allow you to increase the challenge as you get stronger.
Jiggle balls are good for the muscles, but are used more for the fun side of things. People actually use them to make everyday activities more interesting (yes, some people wear them while going about their daily business!). Just be careful if you wear them in your morning meetings though!
According to a study published in the International Urogynaecology Journal, using weighted vaginal cones (similar to kegel balls) can be a great way to treat stress urinary incontinence in women. The study found that women who used vaginal weights showed a large improvement in pelvic floor muscle strength compared to those who did kegel exercises without weights.
So, whether you choose kegel balls or jiggle balls (or both!), it depends on what you’re really after. If you want to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles effectively, kegel balls are the way forward. If you're looking for a mix of pleasure and exercise, jiggle balls could be the ones for you. Either way, you're in for an intimate fitness journey that's anything but boring!
The Benefits of Using Kegel Balls for Pelvic Floor Health
These round delights have been making some serious waves in the world of pelvic floor health, and for good reason too! They may be small, but they definitely pack a punch, and come with a wide range of benefits. Let’s discuss the how’s and why’s.
As you already know by now, we keep going on about how great they are for the pelvic floor muscles. But why is this so important you ask? Well, think of these muscles like a hammock which supports all the important pelvic organs. These include the bladder, uterus and rectum. So when you’re using these balls, you’re giving all of these a targeted workout! A bit like pilates, but for your insides!
Out of all the benefits, we’d say that improved bladder control is likely to top the list. According to the NHS, it is thought that between 3 – 6 million people in the UK have some form of urinary incontinence. Regular use of kegel balls can combat this issue by working on the muscles that control urine flow.
But that’s not it. A strong pelvic floor can also heighten sexual pleasure and function. These muscles play a vital role in arousal and orgasm, and boosting them can lead to more intense feelings and stronger climaxes. It's like upgrading all the parts in your sexual response system!
For those planning to have children, or recovering from childbirth, they can also be a huge help. Pregnancy and labour can weaken your muscles, but using kegel balls before and after pregnancy (with the approval of your doctor, of course) can really help maintain muscle tone and speed up recovery.
A less obvious benefit, is that they can also help improve posture and core strength. The mentioned muscles are part of your deep core, working in unison with your stomach and back muscles. When you start using the balls, they act like a secret weapon for strengthening these muscles. This helps your overall stability and posture.
Lastly, by holding these little weights down there, you’re encouraging more blood flow to your intimate areas, which is great for healing and overall vaginal health.
It's worth noting that while they’re generally safe for most people, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen, especially if you have any pelvic health concerns.
Remember, consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of kegel balls. Like any exercise routine, regular use will yield the best results. So why not give your pelvic floor the attention it deserves? Your body (and your bladder) will thank you!
How to Choose the Right Kegel Balls
Choosing the right ones can feel a bit like Goldilocks trying to find the perfect porridge – you want something that's just right. But don't worry, we're here to steer you in the right direction and find your perfect fit.
First things first, let's talk about weight. A normal set will usually range from about 10g to 100g or more. If you're new to the kegel ball game, it's best to start light. A good beginner weight is around 20-30 grams. As you get stronger, you can slowly increase it. Just be careful though, make sure to master each weight before going up to the next.
Size matters too (in this case)! They’ll typically range from about 2cm to 4cm in diameter. If you're a beginner or have a smaller frame, start with little ones. The larger ones can be a lot more challenging to hold in, and are better suited for the more experienced. They can also be used after childbirth when the vaginal canal might be a bit roomier.
Material is another important factor to think about. Silicone is always a popular choice as it's body-safe, easy to clean, and has a smooth, comfy texture. Metal balls, usually stainless steel, are another great option. They're heavier for their size and offer a pleasant cooling feeling. Just remember, if you're using lube (which is always a good idea), make sure it's compatible with the material of your kegel balls, or any other sex toys for that matter!
Some come as a single bead, while others are joined by a string or strip. The connected ones are easier to remove and are great for beginners. The single ones offer more freedom of movement, and also offer a greater challenge when you’re trying to keep them in.
You can also get textured ones. Some have a smooth surface, while others have ridges or bumps. These bring some interesting sensations, but smooth balls are mostly easier to insert, and more suitable for beginners.
Remember, all of us are different, and what works for one person might not work for another. Don't be afraid to try out different types and find what feels best for you.
Lastly, always buy your adult toys from a reputable source like RaptureWorks that uses body-safe materials, and trusted brands. Your vagina deserves the best, after all!
Jiggle Balls: More Than Just a Novelty
Jiggle balls, also known as Ben Wa balls or pleasure balls, have long been associated with the world of adult fun. But these little spheres of joy are so much more than just a bedroom accessory. Let’s discuss why.
So, by now you know that they get their name from the jiggling of the balls within the balls. And this action serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it provides lovely sensations that enhance arousal and sensitivity. On the other hand, it helps your pelvic muscles to work harder to keep the balls in place. It's like doing kegel exercises without even thinking about it!
But it’s not all fun and games, they can have great health benefits too if used frequently enough. A study carried out by the Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy group, showed that a strong pelvic floor prevents issues like stress incontinence, pelvic organ prolapses, and even lower back pain.
Just like ‘mind-muscle’ connection when going to the gym, you can achieve a similar effect by using these tools. Once you’re more in tune with your muscles, you can engage them easier during everyday activities, thus increasing your body awareness.
For those struggling with low libido, jiggle balls might offer a helping hand. The gentle stimulation they provide throughout the day can help increase blood flow to your nether regions, possibly boosting arousal and sensitivity. It's like a slow burn for your sex drive!
Whilst on the subject, they can also be great during foreplay. You could say they’re a little similar to anal beads in that sense. Or if you’re into different kinds of fun, you could also use a bullet vibrator or wand vibrator to really step things up a gear.
Unlike kegel balls, we wouldn’t ever recommend using these jiggle balls during pregnancy. If you’re really considering it, make sure you go see a healthcare professional first. Seriously.
Now, when using jiggle balls, remember that a little goes a long way. Start by using them in short bursts before going onto the longer sessions. And of course, always clean your jiggle balls thoroughly before and after use for obvious reasons. Check out our full range of sex toy cleaners for some top-quality products.
So next time you come across jiggle balls, remember – they're not just a novelty item. Proper use can bring along some nice health benefits that you’d never imagine. Not too shabby right?
Are Jiggle Balls Effective for Pelvic Floor Exercises?
So, we’ve talked about the key benefits of these little aces. But, amidst all the excitement, a key question comes up: are jiggle balls actually effective for pelvic floor exercises? Let's dive into the science and see what's really shaking down there.
We already know how they work. But let’s go a little deeper. The reason the pelvic muscles are engaged, is because of the jiggling. When this movement happens, our body creates ‘biofeedback’, which in turn helps out with pelvic muscle training. This was taken from a study published in the International Urogynaecology Journal.
Hold your horses, though! Even though they do engage these muscles, you shouldn’t rely on just these balls instead of traditional kegel exercises. They just don’t provide that full on, targeted training like other exercises. On the other hand, they do make them less of a chore, seeing as you can just pop them in and go about your day!
Whilst we’re on the topic of going about your day after insertion, it’s worth mentioning that you can wear them for longer periods of time. This may be a bonus, as you can only do kegels for a few minutes at a time. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions though. Better safe than sorry!
Like with everything else, the effectiveness of them will differ from person to person. Factors like the strength of your pelvic floor muscles, the weight and size of the balls, and how much you move while wearing them can all impact their efficiency.
If you have super weak pelvic muscles, these balls might not be the best option for you, since they don’t provide a huge amount of resistance. Kegel balls, traditional exercises and speaking to a pelviv floor physio may be your best option here. Once you’re trained up, you can step on over to the more playful side!
So, are they effective for pelvic floor exercises? We’d say so. They can be a great addition to your routine, but again, bear in mind they shouldn’t fully replace the usual kegels. They’re more of a fun, passive way to engage those muscles.
As always, if you're considering using jiggle balls for pelvic floor health, it's a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider first, especially if you have any existing pelvic health concerns. Happy jiggling!
References:
National Health Service (NHS). (2023). Pelvic floor exercises. https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/womens-health/what-are-pelvic-floor-exercises/
Dumoulin, C., Cacciari, L. P., & Hay-Smith, E. J. C. (2018). Pelvic floor muscle training versus no treatment, or inactive control treatments, for urinary incontinence in women. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 10(10), CD005654. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD005654.pub4
NHS (National Health Service) https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/urinary-incontinence/
Pelvic, Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy. (2022). The Pelvic Floor Muscles - a Guide for Women. https://pogp.csp.org.uk/publications/pelvic-floor-muscle-exercises-women
Bertotto, A., Schvartzman, R., Uchôa, S., & Wender, M. C. O. (2017). Effect of electromyographic biofeedback as an add-on to pelvic floor muscle exercises on neuromuscular outcomes and quality of life in postmenopausal women with stress urinary incontinence: A randomized controlled trial. Neurourology and Urodynamics, 36(8), 2142-2147. https://doi.org/10.1002/nau.23258
Hagen, S., Stark, D., Glazener, C., Dickson, S., Barry, S., Elders, A., ... & Wilson, D. (2014). Individualised pelvic floor muscle training in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POPPY): a multicentre randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, 383(9919), 796-806. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(13)61977-7
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Pelvic Support Problems. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/pelvic-support-problems
Bø, K., & Nygaard, I. E. (2020). Is Physical Activity Good or Bad for the Female Pelvic Floor? A Narrative Review. Sports Medicine, 50, 471-484. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-019-01243-1
