Kegel Balls
Tiny, discreet, and surprisingly powerful, these little spheres have a lot going on inside.
Kegel Balls: Kegel balls are small weighted spheres worn inside the vagina to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. They are used for both exercise and pleasure.
Also known as: Ben Wa balls, love balls, pleasure balls.
Please note: HotCherry is a retailer, not a medical provider. This content is for general information only. Consult a pelvic floor physiotherapist or doctor before starting any pelvic floor exercise programme, especially if you have pelvic pain, prolapse, or incontinence. Kegel balls are not suitable for everyone. People with hypertonic (overactive) pelvic floor muscles, pelvic pain, active pelvic infection, or certain prolapse conditions should seek professional advice before use, as using kegel balls could worsen these conditions.
Kegel balls work by giving your pelvic floor muscles something to hold onto. The muscles gently contract around the balls to keep them in place, and that repeated effort builds strength over time. Pelvic floor exercises are associated with potential benefits including improved bladder control; some users also report enhanced sensation, though individual results vary. Many people find the results really encouraging after just a few weeks of regular use.
If you feel a bit nervous about trying them for the first time, that is completely normal. Start with a larger, lighter set, as these are much easier to hold in and feel less intimidating than small heavy ones. Most kegel balls have a retrieval cord so you can remove them easily and at your own pace. Always use water based lube when inserting them, and begin with short sessions of around 15 to 20 minutes before working up to longer wear times.
Types of Kegel Balls
Kegel balls come in a few different styles to suit beginners and more experienced users alike.
- Single Ball: One smooth weighted sphere, usually larger and lighter, making it the most beginner friendly option to start with.
- Double Ball Set: Two connected spheres that offer a bit more weight and movement, giving your pelvic floor a slightly greater workout.
- Vibrating Kegel Balls: These include a small motor inside one or both spheres, adding a pleasurable buzz alongside the pelvic floor benefits.
- App Controlled Kegel Trainers: Paired with a smartphone app, these guide you through timed exercise programs and track your progress over time.
- Weighted Progressive Sets: Kits that include multiple balls of increasing weight so you can gradually build pelvic floor strength at your own pace.
Curious to try? Browse our beginner friendly kegel balls and take your time choosing. Every HotCherry order ships discreetly. And if you want help picking, our kegel balls guide walks you through it step by step.
Key things to know
- Choose a larger, lighter ball to start, because it is much easier for beginners to hold in place and builds confidence early on.
- Always use water based lube for insertion, because it protects both your body and the material of the balls.
- Limit wear time to 15 to 20 minutes when you are new to them, because overworking the pelvic floor can cause muscle fatigue or discomfort. Using kegel balls can cause or worsen an overactive pelvic floor. Stop use and consult a healthcare professional if you experience pelvic pain, pressure, or increased urgency.
- Pick body safe materials like silicone, stainless steel, or glass, because non porous surfaces are easy to clean and gentle on your body.
- A retrieval cord is an important feature to look for, because it means you can remove the balls quickly and without any stress.
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FAQ
How do I choose my first pair of kegel balls?
Look for a single ball or a connected pair that is on the larger side and fairly light in weight. Larger balls actually require less muscular effort to retain, which makes them much more comfortable for beginners. A smooth silicone design with a soft retrieval cord is a great place to start.
How long should I wear kegel balls?
When you are just starting out, aim for around 15 to 20 minutes per session. As your pelvic floor gets stronger over a few weeks you can gradually increase the time. Start with very short sessions of a few minutes and build up gradually. Remove them immediately if you feel any discomfort, and seek guidance from a pelvic floor physiotherapist on appropriate duration for your needs. Using kegel balls can cause or worsen an overactive pelvic floor, so stop use and speak to a healthcare professional if you notice pelvic pain, pressure, or increased urgency.
What lube should I use with kegel balls?
Always go with a water based lubricant, especially if your balls are made from silicone. Silicone based lube can damage silicone toys over time. A small amount of lube on the ball itself makes insertion much more comfortable and stress free.
How do I clean kegel balls?
Cleaning depends on the material. Body safe silicone, stainless steel, and glass balls without a motor can usually be washed with warm water and a toy cleaner, and some can even be boiled or put in the dishwasher. Balls with a vibrating motor or a fabric cord should be wiped down carefully according to the instructions, making sure no water gets into the charging port.
Is it safe to wear kegel balls out of the house?
Many people do enjoy wearing them during everyday activities, as the gentle movement can actually enhance the workout. Just make sure you feel comfortable and confident holding them in before you venture out. Start with a short walk around the house first so you know exactly how they feel when you move around.
Can kegel balls help with bladder control?
Pelvic floor exercises are widely associated with improved bladder control, particularly after childbirth or with age. Kegel balls may support pelvic floor exercise by giving your muscles something to work against, though the evidence for kegel balls specifically is not the same as the evidence for kegel exercises generally. If you have specific concerns about bladder health it is always worth having a chat with your doctor or a pelvic floor physiotherapist.
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