Beyond Kegels: Breaking Myths and Building Pelvic Strength

In this empowering episode of Soma Says, Dr. Soma Mandal is joined by Maryellen Reider, co-founder of Yarlap, an FDA-cleared pelvic floor strengthening device designed to help women regain confidence, control, and comfort in their daily lives. Together, they dive deep into the often-ignored world of pelvic floor health, breaking through stigma and silence surrounding urinary incontinence—an issue that affects millions of midlife, postpartum, and athletic women. Maryellen shares the origin story of Yarlap, the science behind correctly performed Kegels, and why so many women unknowingly perform pelvic contractions incorrectly. She sheds light on the rigorous process of FDA clearance, user customization, contraindications, and the powerful success stories of women who have transformed their quality of life with the device. The conversation highlights the profound connection between pelvic health, hormones, menopause, postpartum recovery, and overall well-being. Dr. Soma and Maryellen underscore the importance of early intervention, proper resources, and evidence-based tools to support women at every life stage. Whether you're navigating postpartum changes, the hormonal shifts of menopause, or simply curious about pelvic wellness, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and hope. ⏱️ Timeline 00:00 — Introduction and Disclaimer 00:52 — Meet Maryellen Reider: Co-Founder of Yarlap 01:12 — Understanding Pelvic Health and Incontinence 02:25 — The Creation of Yarlap: A Family Affair 03:44 — Challenges and Misconceptions in Pelvic Health 05:00 — The Importance of FDA Clearance 07:30 — How Yarlap Works: Bridging the Gap in Pelvic Health 11:57 — User Experience and Customization 17:14 — Contraindications and Postpartum Use 18:48 — Personal Stories and Successes 20:31 — Breaking the Silence on Postpartum Incontinence 21:20 — Menopause and Postpartum: A Shared Struggle 21:32 — The Role of Athletes and Active Women 22:00 — Modern Approaches to Incontinence Treatment 23:46 — The Importance of Pelvic Floor Exercises 24:58 — Success Stories: Real Women, Real Results 26:03 — Integrating Yarlap into Daily Life 26:53 — Empowering Women with Knowledge and Tools 27:37 — Navigating Insurance and Financial Options 28:10 — Heartwarming Patient Stories 34:09 — Final Thoughts and Encouragement 🔗 Connect with Maryellen Reider & Yarlap 🌐 Website: https://yarlap.com 📸 Instagram: @yarlap 📘 Facebook: Yarlap 🛍️ Shop Yarlap: https://yarlap.com/products/the-yarlap-kegel-exercise-kit-system 🔗 Connect with Dr. Soma Mandal 🌐 Website: https://www.somamandalmd.com 🏥 (incoming) Medical Director of Women’s Health — Hackensack Meridian Health, Jersey Shore University Medical Center 📚 Book: Midlife Masala — Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, & BookBub 🎧 Listen to Soma Says: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube (@SomaSays) 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsomamandalmd 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/somamandalmd ⭐ Support the Podcast If this conversation encouraged you or helped you better understand your pelvic health, please follow, share, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your support helps more women access empowering conversations about their bodies and their well-being.