Your pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in your urinary continence, sexual function, and overall pelvic health. When these muscles weaken, it can lead to problems like urinary incontinence, which affects around half of adult women. If you’re dealing with urinary incontinence, you’re far from alone.
Fortunately, there are ways to strengthen your pelvic floor. One option is a non-invasive treatment called HIFEM (High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic) technology. The treatment uses electromagnetic energy to stimulate muscle contractions in your pelvic floor to improve strength.
There are different types of HIFEM devices available, including those used in a doctor’s office and some you can use at home. A HIFEM device helps you strengthen your pelvic floor muscles.
Understanding HIFEM Technology for Pelvic Floor Strengthening
What is HIFEM?
HIFEM stands for High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic technology. This tech stimulates and strengthens pelvic floor muscles.
HIFEM uses electromagnetic energy to cause muscles to contract. These contractions are similar to the ones you do when you perform Kegel exercises, but they’re much stronger and more effective. You can also explore other methods such as using Kegel balls to improve muscle tone.
How HIFEM differs from traditional Kegel exercises
HIFEM-induced contractions are intense and effective. For example, each 28-minute EMSELLA session is equivalent to doing 11,000 pelvic floor exercises!
HIFEM can also reach muscles that are hard to target when you do voluntary contractions. This leads to more comprehensive and effective pelvic floor strengthening.
In-Office HIFEM Devices: The EMSELLA Chair
One popular HIFEM device that’s offered in doctor’s offices is the EMSELLA chair. Let’s break down what you need to know.
Overview of the EMSELLA chair
During an EMSELLA treatment, you sit fully clothed and comfortably on the EMSELLA chair. The device then uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) waves to stimulate the muscles of your pelvic floor. The treatment is non-invasive, and you can return to your normal activities immediately afterward.
Benefits of EMSELLA treatment
EMSELLA is most often used to treat urinary incontinence in both men and women. However, some patients also report increased sexual satisfaction, particularly women. Pelvic floor health is important for men too, and addressing issues like erectile dysfunction can significantly improve quality of life. In general, EMSELLA can help improve conditions related to pelvic floor dysfunction, such as stress incontinence, urine leakage, and vaginal laxity.
Treatment protocol and expected results
For the best results, doctors usually recommend a course of six EMSELLA sessions over a three-week period. While some patients notice a difference after just two or three sessions, the full effects typically appear after the entire treatment course. The beneficial effects of EMSELLA can last for up to a year.
Cost considerations
The Urology Partnership, for example, offers EMSELLA treatments for £200 per session, or £1200 for a complete course of six sessions.
At-Home HIFEM Devices: Elitone
If you’re looking for convenient, discreet pelvic floor therapy you can do in the comfort of your own home, Elitone may be a good option to consider.
One of the biggest benefits of Elitone is that you can use it while you’re sitting, standing, or walking around. You don’t have to schedule appointments or travel to a clinic.
How Elitone works
Elitone uses neuromuscular stimulation to treat and strengthen your pelvic floor at home. This means that the device sends gentle electrical pulses to the muscles in your pelvic floor, causing them to contract and relax. Over time, these contractions can help to improve muscle strength and control.
Expected results and timeframe
According to the company, you can expect to see improvements in urinary leakage and an increase in your confidence levels within 6–12 weeks of using Elitone.
Cost and accessibility
Elitone aims to be an accessible solution. They offer payment plans to help make the device more affordable. Contact the company or visit their website for current pricing information.
EMSELLA vs. Elitone: Which is right for you?
EMSELLA and Elitone both use HIFEM technology to strengthen the pelvic floor, but they have key differences. EMSELLA requires in-office visits, while Elitone offers the convenience and privacy of at-home treatment. This convenience comes at a dramatically different price point.
A full course of EMSELLA treatment typically costs between $2000 and $3000 for six sessions. Elitone is offered at a much more accessible price. EMSELLA provides a high-intensity treatment under professional supervision, while Elitone offers a more gradual approach in the comfort of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside to Emsella?
Like any procedure, Emsella isn’t without potential drawbacks. Some patients report mild muscle soreness or tingling during or after treatment. Also, because it relies on electromagnetic energy, it’s not suitable for individuals with metal implants in the pelvic region or those who are pregnant.
What is the age limit for Emsella?
There isn’t a strict age limit for Emsella. Ideal candidates are typically adults experiencing urinary incontinence or seeking pelvic floor strengthening. However, a consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial to determine suitability based on individual health factors.
Does HIFEM actually work?
Research supports the effectiveness of HIFEM (High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic) technology, the technology used in Emsella, for strengthening pelvic floor muscles. Clinical studies have demonstrated significant improvements in urinary incontinence and overall pelvic floor function in many patients.
Who is a good candidate for Emsella?
Good candidates for Emsella are generally women experiencing urinary incontinence (stress, urge, or mixed), postpartum pelvic floor weakness, or those seeking to improve pelvic floor muscle tone for enhanced sexual function. It’s important to consult with a doctor to assess your specific needs and determine if Emsella is right for you.
What is the best device for tightening the pelvic floor?
Determining the “best” device depends on individual needs and preferences. Emsella is a non-invasive option that’s gained popularity. Other options include vaginal weights, biofeedback devices, and electrical stimulation. It’s recommended to discuss your specific concerns with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment plan for you.
In Conclusion
HIFEM technology is a proven way to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and treat urinary incontinence.
Whether you choose the in-office power of EMSELLA or the convenience of Elitone at home, the goal is the same: to strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and other pelvic organs.
Talk to your doctor about which treatment plan is best for you. A healthcare professional can assess your individual needs and preferences to help you decide.
Taking care of your pelvic floor health is an important part of your overall well-being. It can improve your quality of life, and it’s an investment in your future health.