Electric Kegel machines, also known as pelvic floor stimulators or EMS devices, strengthen the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowels. These devices typically feature a probe inserted vaginally or rectally, or sometimes external pads used on the skin. The machine delivers a gentle electrical current to the target area, causing the pelvic floor muscles to contract. Many people seek out these devices as an alternative or supplement to traditional, voluntary Kegel exercises, wondering if the automated stimulation is effective for improving muscle strength.
How Electrical Stimulation Works
The mechanism behind electric Kegel machines is Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES), where an electrical impulse causes a muscle to contract involuntarily. The device delivers a low-frequency current through probe electrodes positioned near the pelvic floor muscles, specifically the levator ani group. This electrical signal mimics the impulses the brain naturally sends to the motor nerves, triggering a muscle contraction. This controlled electrical current causes the target muscles to contract and relax in a programmed cycle, providing an intense workout.
Unlike traditional Kegel exercises, where the user must consciously isolate the muscles, the NMES device forces the contraction. This involuntary action is particularly helpful for individuals who have difficulty identifying or activating the correct muscles, a common issue affecting up to half of women attempting manual Kegels. The treatment works by recruiting both slow-twitch muscle fibers, responsible for endurance and continence, and fast-twitch fibers, needed for quick, strong contractions to resist sudden pressure like a cough or sneeze.
Clinical Evidence of Effectiveness
Clinical research supports the effectiveness of electrical stimulation as a treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction, especially for certain types of urinary incontinence. The devices are frequently used to treat Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), which involves leaking urine during physical activity, and Mixed Incontinence. The stimulation helps increase the bulk and strength of the pelvic floor musculature, which provides better support for the bladder neck and urethra.
In comparison studies, electrical stimulation often yields results comparable to, or superior to, traditional manual Kegel exercises. The device ensures the muscles are contracted strongly and consistently, overcoming the frequent problem of incorrect manual technique. Trials have shown that patients using electromagnetic stimulation reported higher intravaginal pressure values and better quality of life scores than those performing Kegel exercises alone. The effectiveness of the treatment is directly related to the user’s consistency and the severity of the underlying condition.
For individuals with very weak pelvic floor muscles who cannot produce a voluntary contraction, electrical stimulation serves as an initial rehabilitation tool. Devices cleared by regulatory bodies are shown to be effective in treating stress, urge, and mixed urinary incontinence, improving continence and reducing leakage episodes.
Guidelines for Safe Use
Consult a healthcare provider, such as a pelvic health physical therapist, before beginning treatment with an electric Kegel machine. A professional can assess pelvic floor strength, determine the correct program settings, and ensure the device is appropriate for the user’s specific condition. Proper hygiene is also important, requiring the user to clean the internal probe with soap and water after every use, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Contraindications exist where the use of an electrical stimulation device is discouraged.
Contraindications
- Individuals with an active cardiac pacemaker or an implanted defibrillator should not use these devices, as the electrical current can interfere with the function of the implant.
- The devices should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Avoid use if the user has an active pelvic infection.
- Avoid use if there is a known malignancy (cancer) in the pelvic area.
If any discomfort, pain, or bleeding occurs during use, the treatment should be stopped immediately, and a healthcare professional should be contacted.