A pelvic floor muscle stimulator uses gentle electrical stimulation to help your pelvic floor muscles contract.

It may help improve:

• Bladder control
• Bowel control
• Pelvic floor muscle awareness
• Pelvic floor muscle strength

This treatment is prescribed by your pelvic health physiotherapist as part of your individual treatment plan.

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Why have I been given this device?

This device may be helpful if:

• You find it difficult to contract your pelvic floor muscles independently
• Your pelvic floor muscles are weak
• You need support to improve muscle awareness and control

Your physiotherapist will explain how this treatment fits into your rehabilitation.

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How to use your device

Start

• Empty your bladder
• Wash your hands
• Find a comfortable, private place where you can relax
• Check your equipment is clean and undamaged

Preparation

• Connect the electrode cable securely to the stimulator unit.
• Apply a small amount of water-based lubricant
• Gently insert the vaginal electrode as shown by your physio
• Ensure the metal contact plates are positioned sideways, towards your inner thigh

Treatment

• Switch the stimulator on
• Select the programme recommended by your physiotherapist.
• Slowly increase the intensity until you feel:
  • a tingling sensation and/or
  • your pelvic floor muscles gently contracting

During treatment

• As you become more familiar with the stimulation, your physiotherapist may ask you to gently squeeze your pelvic floor muscles along with the machine.
• Try to stay relaxed and breathe normally during treatment.

After Treatment

• Switch the unit off
• Gently remove the electrode
• Wash the electrode with warm water and mild soap
• Dry thoroughly and store in the resealable probe bag
• Unit should be stored in the bag provided

If you have persistent discomfort, notice pain, bleeding or irritation STOP treatment and contact your physiotherapist.

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Do NOT use this device if:

• Have a cardiac pacemaker or implanted electrical device
• Are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant
• Are less than 12 weeks postnatal
• Are less than 12 weeks after pelvic, abdominal or perineal surgery
• Have an active bladder, vaginal or pelvic infection
• Have unexplained vaginal or rectal bleeding
• Have absent sensation in the pelvic area
• Have an allergy to metals such as nickel (unless advised otherwise)
• Have a copper coil (IUD) or any metal piercings in the pelvic area (Device is fine to use with a Mirena coil)

Please speak to your physiotherapist before using if you:

• Have epilespy
• Have diabetes with reduced sensation
• Have a pelvic organ prolapse or use a pessary
• Are currently having treatment for cancer or have histroy of pelvic/abdominal cancer
• Are on your period and are unsure whether treatment feels comfortable
• Have scar tissue in the treatment area

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Important

Stop treatment and contact your physiotherapist if you experience:

• Pain or discomfort
• Bleeding
• Skin irritation
• Dizziness
• Worsening symptoms

If you have any concerns, please email your physiotherapist at fv.pelvichealthphysiotherapy@nhs.scot