Comparative Effects of Kegel and Squat Exercises on Urinary Incontinence Severity and Quality of Life

Abstract

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common condition among women, associated with impaired quality of life, social stigma, and increased healthcare burden. Conservative management strategies such as pelvic floor muscle training are widely recommended as first-line interventions. While Kegel exercises are the most established approach, squat-based training has been proposed as an alternative for enhancing pelvic and core muscle strength. Objective: To compare the effects of Kegel and squat exercises on urinary incontinence severity and health-related quality of life among women with UI. Methods: A randomized clinical trial (NCT07156266) was conducted at two hospitals in Faisalabad, Pakistan, enrolling 26 women aged 30–60 years with clinically confirmed UI. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups: Kegel exercise group (n=14) and squat exercise group (n=12). Both groups received baseline transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation followed by 12 weeks of daily exercises. Outcomes were assessed using the Incontinence Quality of Life questionnaire (I-QOL) and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Long Form (ICIQ-FLUTS-LF). Conclusion: Kegel exercises were more effective than squats in improving quality of life and reducing symptom severity in women with UI, supporting their role as the preferred conservative treatment.