Mechanical or hormonal effects occurring during pregnancy may negatively impact pelvic support. However, information regarding the normal physiological changes in the pelvic floor during pregnancy is quite limited.

It has been shown that the tensile strength of fascia in pregnant women is lower compared to non-pregnant women, that there is a downward displacement of the pelvic floor detectable even in early pregnancy via perineal ultrasound, that pelvic floor muscle contractions are significantly reduced, and that bladder and urethral mobility increase—particularly becoming more prominent in late pregnancy. Pelvic floor muscle training helps to develop the paravaginal muscles and supports the bladder neck.

The aim of Kegel exercises, known as pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises, is to strengthen the weakened and strained pelvic floor muscle groups and improve their function.

The main benefits of Kegel exercises include increasing pelvic floor muscle strength, reducing the need for episiotomy, decreasing the likelihood of pelvic organ prolapse, preventing the development of hemorrhoids, improving continence control, and enhancing orgasm, thereby reducing sexual problems. Pelvic floor muscle exercises are also beneficial for women in the peripartum period.