Ben Wa / Kegel Balls

By now, you probably know that Kegels involve tightening then releasing the muscles in your pelvic floor (it should feel like you're stopping yourself from peeing). But have you ever used Kegel balls to make these exercises even more challenging?

Kegel balls help strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. They've been used for centuries, and are sometimes also referred to as Ben Wa balls. These small, circular weights are inserted into your vagina (yep, just like a tampon) and essentially make your muscles say, "Oh, I gotta keep these in," which triggers them to contract.

Think of it as taking your pelvic floor muscles to the gym. You can start by using Kegel balls for a few minutes each day, then increasing for longer intervals as you get stronger. Don't worry, Kegel balls come out easily; you just need to relax your body. Most also have strings to make them easier to remove.

Ben Wa balls may be used on their own or with other sex aids, such as a vibrator. Most people do not move them repeatedly in and out of the vagina as you might use a dildo. Instead, they find that the balls can heighten awareness, arousal, and sensation when left inside or moved gently.