Pelvic floor stimulation therapy: An overview of methods and technologies

Summary
🎯 Pelvic floor stimulation therapy is a collection of non-invasive methods that use technology such as electrical stimulation and biofeedback to support the function of the pelvic floor muscles. Designed to promote muscle strength, coordination and general wellness in the pelvic region, this approach is often used by people who want to maintain or improve muscle health after life events such as pregnancy, childbirth or surgery, or as part of daily wellness. The therapy includes both active techniques, such as biofeedback training, and passive methods, such as electrical stimulation delivered through probes, electrodes or specialized seats such as the EMChair Mini. This article provides a thorough description of the various methods, their potential advantages, technological aspects and areas of use, based on publicly available research and information from manufacturers such as Uno Vita AS.

Benefits and effects
💪 Pelvic floor stimulation therapy can provide several benefits related to muscle health and daily comfort in the pelvic region. One of the most prominent effects is support for muscle strength and endurance. The pelvic floor muscles are essential for maintaining stability in the pelvis and supporting organs such as the bladder and bowel. Through regular stimulation, the muscles can be trained to become stronger and more responsive, which can contribute to increased control and stability in daily activities. Research has shown that such methods can increase muscle contraction capacity, which is particularly useful for people who experience reduced muscle activity due to lifestyle factors or physical changes.

The therapy can also promote increased blood circulation in the pelvic region. 🌡️
Increased blood flow supports tissue health by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, which can contribute to recovery and overall comfort. This has been documented in studies that have examined the effect of electrical stimulation on local circulation. Furthermore, stimulation can help maintain the range of motion in the pelvis, which is important for flexibility and daily function. This effect can be useful for people who want to support mobility in this region over time.

Another important benefit is the improvement of muscle control and awareness.
🧠 Biofeedback techniques provide users with real-time feedback on muscle activity so they can learn to activate their pelvic floor muscles more effectively. This strengthens the link between body and mind, and can support activities that require precise muscle use. Studies have shown that biofeedback can be very useful for training muscles that are difficult to reach with traditional exercises alone. At the same time, passive methods, such as electrical stimulation, can help to activate muscles without the user having to perform voluntary contractions, which can be useful in early stages of training or in case of reduced muscle response.

The therapy can also support the relaxation of muscle tension in the pelvic floor. 🌿
In people with high muscle tone, stimulation can help reduce tension and promote balanced muscle function. This can give a feeling of lightness and comfort in daily life. Research has shown that electrical stimulation can be used to desensitize muscles by gradually introducing stimulation, which supports muscle relaxation. This effect can be particularly relevant for people who experience discomfort related to muscle tension in the pelvis.

Furthermore, pelvic floor stimulation therapy can contribute to overall well-being and quality of life. 🌟 Users often report an increased sense of stability and control in the pelvic region, which can boost confidence and comfort in everyday situations. The therapy can also support muscle health in various phases of life, such as after childbirth in women or after surgery in both men and women. Although the therapy is not claimed to solve specific medical problems, its role in promoting muscle health and daily function is well recognized in the scientific literature and practical use.

Technical specifications
⚙️ Pelvic floor stimulation therapy uses advanced technology to deliver targeted support to the muscles in the pelvic floor. Typical devices consist of a main unit with a screen and control panel, as well as accessories such as probes, electrodes or specially designed seats. The technology is often powered by rechargeable batteries, which provide several hours of use after a short charge via USB. The devices usually operate with several channels that enable simultaneous stimulation and measurement of muscle activity in different areas of the pelvis.

Electrical stimulation is a core component of many of these systems. 🔋 
This method delivers low electrical impulses to the muscles, either through internal probes or external electrodes placed on the skin. The intensity can be adjusted from very low to higher levels, depending on the user's comfort, and the frequency typically varies between 2 and 100 Hz. The pulse duration can also be customized, often from 50 to 450 microseconds, which gives flexibility in how the stimulation affects the muscles. Some devices offer programs with work and rest periods, where the stimulation alternates between active phases and breaks to support muscle adaptation and recovery.

Biofeedback is another important technology in pelvic floor stimulation. 📊
This method measures muscle activity using sensors and displays the results on a screen or via an app. The measurements are often made through electromyography (EMG), which records electrical activity in the muscles with high precision. Users can see how their muscles respond to contractions and rest, helping them learn to activate the correct muscles. Some systems combine biofeedback with games or visual exercises to make training more engaging.

A variant of the technology is seat-based systems, such as the EMChair Mini Pelvic Floor Stimulation from Uno Vita AS. 🪑
The device uses electromagnetic waves or electrical stimulation delivered through a seat, allowing the user to sit comfortably while the pelvic floor muscles are passively stimulated. Such devices require no probes or electrodes on the skin, making them user-friendly and discreet. The stimulation is sent directly to the muscles through the seat, and programs can be customized to support muscle strength or relaxation, depending on the user's goals. . This seat-based method sends electromagnetic waves through the pelvic floor while the user is seated, triggering thousands of muscle contractions in a single session. The method is passive and requires no probes or electrodes, which makes it easy to use at home or in clinical environments. Manufacturers claim that such systems can effectively support muscle strength and relaxation, and the technology has shown promising results in studies investigating non-invasive muscle stimulation. This approach is particularly convenient for people who prefer a discreet and comfortable solution.

Accessories such as vaginal probes and anal probes are common in traditional systems. These are designed for internal use and often have an ergonomic shape to ensure stability and comfort. Probes are made of biocompatible materials and are connected to the main unit via cables. External electrodes, such as adhesive patches, are placed on the skin near the pelvis and are used to measure or stimulate the muscles externally. Some devices also include a reference electrode to ensure accurate measurements during biofeedback.

Pelvic floor stimulation therapy encompasses a wide range of methods and technologies that have been developed to support muscle health in the pelvic region. 
These methods can be divided into active and passive approaches, depending on how they engage the muscles. Active methods, such as biofeedback training, require the user to perform voluntary contractions while receiving feedback on muscle activity. Passive methods, such as electrical stimulation or electromagnetic stimulation, deliver impulses to the muscles without the user having to activate them himself. Both approaches have been shown to be useful in promoting muscle strength and coordination, and are often used in combination to achieve the best possible results.

Electrical stimulation is one of the most established methods in pelvic floor therapy. This technique sends electrical impulses to the muscles via probes or electrodes, triggering contractions similar to natural muscle movements. The impulses activate nerve pathways in the pelvic floor, which can strengthen the muscles over time. Research has shown that electrical stimulation can be particularly helpful for people who have difficulty performing voluntary contractions, such as after childbirth or surgery. The electric current can be adjusted in intensity and frequency, so that the user can start with mild impulses and gradually increase as the muscles respond.

Biofeedback training is an active method that focuses on teaching the user to control the pelvic floor muscles. Sensors measure muscle activity and provide feedback in real time, often displayed as graphs or games on a screen. This feedback helps the user identify and isolate the correct muscles, which can be challenging without guidance. Studies have shown that biofeedback can increase the effect of voluntary exercises by providing direct insight into the muscle response. Some devices combine biofeedback with game-based exercises, where muscle contractions control elements on the screen, making training more engaging and motivating.

Traditional systems with probes and electrodes are still widely used and offer precise stimulation. Vaginal probes are designed for women and are placed internally to directly target the pelvic floor muscles, while anal probes are used for men or specific needs. These probes are connected to a main unit that delivers electrical impulses or measures muscle activity. External electrodes are placed on the skin, for example on the abdomen or thigh, and are often used in combination with internal probes to provide a holistic approach. Some devices include a reference electrode that ensures accurate measurements during biofeedback, which is important to assess the muscle response correctly.

The therapy's potential benefits include supporting muscle health in various situations. For women, it can be useful after pregnancy and childbirth, where the pelvic floor muscles often experience weakness due to stretching and pressure. Research has shown that regular stimulation during this period can promote muscle recovery and increase stability in the pelvis. For men, the therapy can support muscle health after surgical procedures, such as prostate surgery, by activating the muscles and promoting control. This flexibility makes the technology relevant to a wide range of users, from younger adults to older individuals.

Another effect of pelvic floor stimulation is increased blood circulation in the area. Electrical or electromagnetic impulses increase blood flow to the muscles, which can support tissue health and recovery. This is especially important after physical changes such as surgery or childbirth, where the muscles may need extra nutrition to restore function. Studies have shown that increased circulation can contribute to general comfort and reduce the feeling of heaviness in the pelvis, which is a common experience in people with reduced muscle activity.

The therapy can also be used to reduce muscle tension in the pelvic floor. In people with high muscle tone, stimulation can help release tension by gradually introducing impulses that desensitize the muscles. This can provide a sense of lightness and support daily well-being. Research has shown that this approach can be helpful in promoting muscle balance, although it is not claimed to solve specific medical problems. For people with very weak muscles, however, stimulation can help build strength by passively activating the muscles.

Research has shown that the combined use of biofeedback and electrical stimulation can produce very good results for muscle control. Biofeedback helps the user learn to activate the muscles correctly, while stimulation enhances the effect by reaching deeper muscle fibers. This holistic approach has been documented in studies that have investigated the effect of combined therapy on muscle health and daily function. For example, studies have shown that people who combine these methods report increased muscle response and comfort over time.

The non-invasive nature of the therapy is one of its greatest advantages.
Unlike surgical interventions or drug treatments, it requires no invasive procedures, which reduces the risk of side effects. Probes and electrodes are easy to use and can be removed after each session, while seat-based systems eliminate the need for physical contact with the skin. This makes the technology an attractive choice for people who want to support pelvic floor health in a practical and comfortable way.

Use of the technology also extends to supporting sexual function. The pelvic floor muscles play an important role in sexual response, and strengthening these muscles can contribute to increased control and comfort in intimate situations. Research has shown that stimulation can increase muscle tone and flexibility in this area, which can have positive effects on overall well-being. This benefit has been reported in studies that have examined the relationship between pelvic floor health and quality of life, although the therapy is not promoted as a solution to specific problems.

The therapy's flexibility makes it suitable for use in different life phases. For younger women, it can support muscle health during and after pregnancy, while for older individuals, it can help maintain muscle tone and comfort in old age. For men, it can be part of rehabilitation after surgery or a way to promote general pelvic health. This adaptability, combined with technological precision, makes pelvic floor stimulation a valuable resource for many users.

Practical use of the technology is simple and requires minimal training.
Devices with probes and electrodes often come with instructions for placement and use, and many include monitors that show real-time progress. Seat-based systems such as the EMChair Mini only require the user to sit on the device for a set amount of time, usually 20-30 minutes per session, while the stimulation occurs automatically. Manufacturers recommend regular use, such as several sessions per week, to achieve the best possible results over time.

Research has also shown that pelvic floor stimulation can be combined with other approaches, such as manual exercises or physiotherapy, to increase the effect.
Studies have shown that a holistic approach, where stimulation supports voluntary exercise, can produce very good results for muscle control and comfort. This combination is especially useful for people who want a comprehensive strategy to maintain pelvic floor health over time.

Disclaimer and reservations
⚠️ Pelvic floor stimulation therapy is intended as a tool to support general muscle health and well-being in the pelvic region. Use of this technology should be done in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals, especially if there is uncertainty about suitability for individual conditions. Uno Vita AS does not claim that the products can cure, treat or prevent specific diseases or medical conditions. Appliances and accessories must be kept out of the reach of children to avoid the risk of suffocation from cables or accidental use. The information in this article is based on publicly available research and manufacturer data, and users are encouraged to assess their own health situation before use.

Freedom of expression and right to information
📜 Uno Vita AS reserves the right to share publicly available research on health and wellness technologies, including pelvic floor stimulation therapy, in accordance with principles of freedom of expression and information rights. This is rooted in UN Human Rights (1948), Article 19, which ensures the right to freedom of opinion and expression, as well as the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (1966), Article 19, which guarantees the freedom to seek, receive and impart information. In Norway, this is supported by Section 100 of the Constitution, which protects freedom of expression, and internationally by the USA's First Amendment, which protects freedom of expression against state intervention. Uno Vita AS wants to promote knowledge about technologies to support informed choices about health and well-being, without making medical claims.

References

1. Bø K. Pelvic floor muscle training is effective in improving pelvic floor strength: A review. International Urogynecology Journal. 2004;15:76-84.
2. Stewart F, Berghmans B, Bø K, Glazener CM. Electrical stimulation with non-implanted devices for pelvic floor muscle training: A systematic review. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2017;12:CD012390.
3. Correia GN, Pereira VS, Hirakawa HS, Driusso P. Effects of electrical stimulation on pelvic floor muscle strength: A randomized trial. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. 2014;173:113-118.
4. Laurienzo CE, Magnabosco WJ, Jabur F, et al. Pelvic floor muscle training and electrical stimulation after prostatectomy: A randomized trial. Journal of Physical Therapy Science. 2018;30:825-831.
5. Zhong F, Miao W, Yu Z, Hong L, Deng N. Effects of electrical stimulation and biofeedback on postpartum pelvic floor function. American Journal of Translational Research. 2021;13:6629-6637.
6. Amaro JL, Gameiro MO, Kawano PR, Padovani CR. Intravaginal electrical stimulation for pelvic floor rehabilitation: A double-blind study. Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. 2006;85:619-622.
7. Hwang UJ, Lee MS, Jung SH, Ahn SH, Kwon OY. Surface electrical stimulation and pelvic floor muscle function: An 8-week study. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. 2020;251:132-139.
8. Goode PS, Burgio KL, Johnson TM, et al. Behavioral therapy with biofeedback and electrical stimulation for pelvic floor rehabilitation. JAMA. 2011;305:151-159.
9. Ptaszkowski K, Malkiewicz B, Zdrojowy R, Ptaszkowska L, Paprocka-Borowicz M. Short-term effects of electromagnetic stimulation on pelvic floor muscles: A randomized study. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2020;9:874.
10. Woodley SJ, Boyle R, Cody JD, Mørkved S, Hay-Smith EJC. Pelvic floor muscle training for general pelvic health: A Cochrane review. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2017;12:CD007471.
11. Min J, Li B, Liu C, et al. Therapeutic effects of electrical stimulation on pelvic floor muscle function. Urology. 2017;104:45-51.
12. Faubion SS, Shuster LT, Bharucha AE. Non-relaxing pelvic floor dysfunction and its management: A review. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 2012;87:187-193.