Sex efficiency through exercises : special physical culture for women / by Th. H. van de Velde ; [photos, by E. Steinemann].

CHAPTER X UTILITY IN PREVENTION AND ALLEVIATION OF GYNECOLOGICAL DISEASES It would be outside the scope of the present study to deal fully with the effect of physical exercise on structural defects and functional derangements of the reproductive organs of women. I shall merely outline the main points and deal somewhat more in detail with one important morbid condition, for in explaining the contraindications for pelvic exercises (Chapter VII. supra) I have already anticipated much of the subject-matter of this chapter. Therefore, I confine myself here to emphasising the inadvisability of all and any pelvic exercises in any active stage of inflammation of the feminine organs, especially the upper genital tract, i.e., womb, oviducts, ovaries and ligamenta lata (broad bands). There is then imminent risk of " lighting up " the inflamma- tion. But if the active inflammation has subsided and become fully inactive, the chronic condition, and even certain sequelae of former inflammations, may be much alleviated by the results of wisely chosen and executed physical exercise of the pelvic regions ; such results include the better circulation of blood and lymph stream through the local tissues, and the activation of metabolic processes as well. But it should always be borne in mind that the risk of " lighting up " foci of a former inflammation is a very complicated matter, which can only be judged by a skilled specialist after thorough examination and testing; indeed, there are certain cases in which prolonged observation and tests are necessary before an opinion can be formed. More- over, even if the diagnosis is favourable, the patient needs frequent overhauling and should be careful to avoid needless vehemence and strain, particularly at first. s.«. 8x G