Get Tight for Life…and Revitalised!

Wow! What a week! With the hit of the The Sunday Times’ Style Magazine article on Sunday 20 March (Click here to read the article), the phones in the Kegel8 office have been hot, hot, hot!

Women are really rallying together as our mission to raise awareness of pelvic floor problems begins to make ears prick-up with cries of ‘hey yeah, I suffer from that’; from incontinence and prolapse to lack of satisfaction in the (ahem…) bedroom department…for both parties!

These are not just ‘old women problems’ or a ‘consequence of pregnancy’ – they happen to young, single women too. And they are certainly not ‘just part and parcel of being a woman’ – although mother-nature gave us plenty we just have to accept, incontinence is NOT included!

At long last we can stop shying away from our pelvic flaws and get to work on changing them…actually, even better than that, Kegel8 can get to work on changing them while we relax!

A Kegel8 pelvic exerciser applies an electronic pulse to your pelvic muscles causing them to tense and relax intermittently with no effort from you, ensuring perfect pelvic exercises every time.

To manually exercise your pelvic floor muscles is a big commitment, requiring 20-40 repetitions a couple of times a day, and even then there is always that little voice sat on your shoulder asking ‘are you sure you’re doing this right?’

‘It’s far less a commitment to lie in bed toning while reading – and electrification works. I know it works because, two months ago, I was prone to acts of involuntary urination when jogging. Now I’m not’ – Louise Parker, Style Magazine

So we’ve dabbed the dribbles, now what about you and your man? Nowadays we’re not prepared to put up with losing sexual sensation because of a weak pelvic floor and too right we shouldn’t! That’s why we’ve developed the new Kegel8 Ultra Vitality…

This marvelous little wonder comes with a wider probe for better connectivity with the muscle bed and a custom programme designed especially for revitalising your sex life. Trust us; you’ll really notice the difference!

Tried and tested by The Sunday Times; ‘...I’ve been assured by my husband that there has been a noticeable change!’ – Louise Parker, Style Magazine

We will be launching every girl’s new best friend, the Kegel8 Ultra Vitality, at the forthcoming Vitality Show, Earls Court, London. The show runs from Thursday 24th March until Sunday 27th March 2011 and is the UK’s largest health, beauty, fitness and wellbeing event for women by women, with everything you could possibly want to look healthier, fitter and more gorgeous – Everything you need for a great day out with the girls.

Pop along and visit us at Stand F614 for a chat and see the product in the flesh; get expert advice including a Free exercise guide; and even be in with a chance of winning a shiny new Kegel8 Ultra Vitality of your very own!

When you decide you're ready to have a baby, you will find there's so much to think about months in advance before you even get down to it. Getting your body primed, ready to conceive and carry your baby should be at the top of your to-do list.

Diet

Pelvic floor exercises aid in conception

Making a lifestyle change now helps to optimize your health and increase your chances of conception. Quitting smoking and cutting back on caffeine and alcohol now will get you used to the change well before your body is being flooded with hormones.

Any over-the-counter prenatal vitamin with 400mg of folic acid can be taken daily at this point. Prenatal vitamins are formulated to give you the correct levels of necessary vitamins and minerals. They come with reduced levels of Vitamin A as well as increased Calcium and Iron.

Certain types of fish are high in mercury which can be dangerous to a growing fetus. Mercury can accumulate and linger in your body for more than a year so the sooner you cut them out, the better. Even canned tuna should be limited to no more than four medium cans or two fresh tuna steaks a week. Instead of high-mercury fish like swordfish, shark and king mackerel, choose from cod, haddock, plaice, mackerel, herring, pilchard, sardine, trout or salmon instead.

Exercise

Having a fit body will help have a more comfortable pregnancy. By starting well in advance, you will find conception, pregnancy and labour much easier.

Pelvic floor exercises are without a doubt extremely important. Your pelvic floor is what's going to support your quickly growing uterus! The increase in blood flow and flexibility means healthy, oxygen-rich muscle tissue. This can mean a shorter labour and faster recovery after the birth of your child. When the pelvic floor muscles are well toned, the risk of tearing is lower as is the need for an episiotomy or c-sections. Kegel exercises are also good for keeping stress incontinence at bay, a well known pregnancy side-effect!

Another good exercise to get into the habit of now is swimming. Swimming is a good low impact exercise that burns calories like mad and you can continue all throughout your pregnancy. It builds up your cardio and is also an effective resistance exercise. Once you're heavily pregnant, you will soon appreciate the zero gravity.

Yoga is an excellent way of relaxing as well as increasing flexibility. This increase in flexibility helps to adapt to various positions while in labour. Your ligaments will also be more elastic which will help to reduce labour pain. After you've had baby you can return to yoga, usually about six weeks after birth. This will help strengthen your abdominal walls and your pelvic floor. It will also help you get back to your pre-pregnancy shape too!

Squats, when performed correctly, work all major muscle groups and are another high-calorie burning exercise. Full squats increase flexibility in your lower body which as we already know makes for a much easier delivery. You build up a little muscle which will come in handy when you have to carry around a pregnant belly and as if that wasn't enough, squats also tone up your bum and thighs. BONUS!

It's December. The country's been hit with massive amounts of snow. The change of weather mixed with hiking through knee deep snow drifts and digging your car out has left you with a nasty cold or flu. Wonderful! If that wasn't bad enough, imagine if you also have stress incontinence!

We are all familiar with the sneeze-pee or the cough-pee. On regular days they are troublesome but when you can't stop sneezing or coughing it just adds to the misery! When you're in bed feeling like death warmed up, the last thing you want to think about is incontinence pads.

Just as you exercise good healthy habits to avoid getting sick in the first place, you should also be exercising your pelvic floor as well. When you have a fit immune system, you're less likely to catch a cold or flu. When you have a fit pelvic floor, you're less likely to wet your pants when you cough or sneeze. It makes sense doesn’t it?

If you've been lucky enough to avoid getting sick so far this year, practice now the next time you feel a tickle in your nose. Clench your PC muscles just before you let loose with a sneeze and see if it makes a difference. Keep this up and before long it will become second nature to clench before a cough or sneeze. You will find your knickers will stay drier. Then, when you do come down with the inevitable cold or flu, your pelvic floor will be ready to bear the extra strain!

Something else to keep in mind, if you are laid up in bed and you're taking a decongestant, it could worsen incontinence symptoms! Decongestants have a side effect of tightening the urinary sphincter. They're also known to cause urinary retention and overflow incontinence! All the more reason to prepare yourself now before it's too late!

Due to the snow, we are a bit short on staff at the moment! If you are unable to get through on our customer service line, please feel free to contact us either via email, Twitter or Facebook. You can even leave us a comment here and we will get back to you as soon as we can!

Thank you!

Here's a round up of places Kegel8 has popped up recently around the internet.

Since 1988, Kegel8 has been one of the UK's largest and longest established healthcare suppliers. So it comes as no surprise when people mention Kegel8 and what we do for them. Here's a short collection of recent mentions on the internet we'd like to share.

Have you seen Kegel8 mentioned anywhere else? Drop us a line and let us know!

First off, Kegel8 was in Edinburgh a while back, meeting and greeting customers in addition to answering questions. It was exciting to see so many ladies who were curious about how to effectively obtain a tighter vagina and cure stress incontinence.

Then we head off over to Woman's World where we were featured along with the Incostress in Five Ways to Discover Your Pelvic Floor. Here you can find some really good information about how to find your pelvic floor, test it and strengthen it.

Next we find ourselves on Having My Cake and Eating it Too where the lovely Joanna Cake tells us about the time she used her Kegel8 as a Sex Toy! The story may be too risque for reading at work but is definitely worth the read.

Joanna's also been nice enough to write up a review on our Kegel8 Exercise Cones. It's always refreshing to hear what other customers honestly think about our products rather than reading what a company's marketing department has to say. Wouldn't you agree?

Going back about a month ago, Kegel8 announced that we were participating in the Breast Cancer Campaign's Wear it Pink day. If you follow us on Facebook then you may have already seen our pictures. Everybody was such a good sport about participating, even our guests! We had a ball, ate lots of pink cake and most importantly we raised lots of money for Breast Cancer Research. Have a look at the photo gallery on our Facebook page to see our lovely smiling faces.

My name is Beverley Dale, I am 36 years old and I have been living with a prolapsed bowel for too long.

I went to hospital in May of this year with heavy periods (this had being an ongoing problem for 2 years). They had tried to use a Mirena to slow the bleeding but this didn't work. Initially I didn't go for my bowel; I think I had accepted this as part of my body. Manual evacuation isn't a pleasant thing but I had enough to worry about so this was put on the back burner.

While having an internal scan they found my prolapse, a large cyst was found and my Mirena was in the wrong place. First they needed to tackle my cyst and the Mirena. I went into hospital in July and by the end of August I was ready for my next challenge, my prolapse.

I went for my appointment beginning of September to discuss my bowel. The Gyno informed me on my earlier surgery they had noticed I had the starting of a prolapse in my bladder and my uterus. These were going to be left alone for now. I needed surgery to repair my prolapse, remove a large hernia and to reconstruct the triangular piece of flesh that is the perineum. The doctor recommended I completely change my lifestyle. No heavy lifting, no hovering, no mowing the lawn and no lifting anything heavier than a 4 pint carton of milk.

The only positive thing that came from the discussion was I can cycle for my hearts content. This is because you're totally supported by sitting on the seat. I came out thinking at 36 there are thousands of things I can no longer do. After I put my sensible head on I realised there are thousands of things I wouldn't want to do and could never do. From now on I can no longer bungee jump (never did it, never wanted to) so it didn't matter anyway. I tried focusing on what I can do; once I'm fully back on my feet I am treating myself to a new bike. We have had to sell our camping gear (can't help with putting the tent up etc.) with this money we are going for a Caravan holiday. I think it's all down to perception!

I Had Surgery on 19 October; This is How I've Got on So Far.

When I got out of surgery I felt quite good, I was pleasantly surprised. The painkillers were great and I didn't feel a thing. That night was a slightly different story every time I moved my legs it hurt. I had medication through the night, this helped immensely. I was so scared that I had made a mistake and asked myself was it worth it? My legs were in these compression straps, that inflated every minute or so (these were quite relaxing actually). The next day they took the wadding out of my Loolar (age 36 and I still can't bring myself to say Vagina). This was the best thing they could have every done, all the pain and discomfort the night before was from this wadding. I felt 100% better. I could sit up and started to feel more in control.

Over the day next few days I had my compression straps removed and put on a very fetching pair of surgical stockings. I was given Lactulose to help me go for a poo. My first poo was quite scary (everything in your body says, don't push!) but everything went fine and I felt so much better for going. I was told by my physiotherapist that I had to have 2 weeks extended hospital rest at home (no more than you would do in the hospital) and told me to start my pelvic floor exercises ASAP. 100 a day for the rest of my life! I started thinking about the pelvic floor exercises, 100 sounds a lot but break it down. Making a cup of tea (10) having a shower (10) dinnertime (10) Cuppa time (10) favourite program on (10). Once you have this in your mind you soon get through 100 without feeling you have.

At home each day blends into the next; lots of rest, reading, TV, DVDs, magazines and visitors. It's a struggle to be interesting all the time!

By day 8 I was so bored, needed to take things into my own hands. I know shopping! I did my first Tesco shop on-line. No pushing a trolley, No heavy goods and No leaving my chair. I started to feel a bit more in control now. I could decide what we were having for tea!

Day 12, feeling fantastic. Put cards away, pottered around the house. Day 13 Yesterday! What a mistake. I did too much (although it didn't feel like that) I felt sore and now walking gingerly. I need Paracetomal and Ibuprofen. Such a silly girl, I am supposed to be able to do my 5 minute walk tomorrow. What if I don't feel up to it now! Ugh! Instead I just sat and read all day.

Luckily by the next day I felt a lot better, who would have thought doing something so small would leave you feeling so tired? I don't need painkillers today. I am so relieved; I really wanted to get out of the house today. Even if it is only a 5 minute walk. FRESH AIR! I am now on day 16, I am still taking my 5 minute walk a day, next week I can increase it to 10-15 minutes. I know it will take time getting back to normal and I will have to be patient. But it is all up from here.

Top Tips

• Try not to read too much on the web (I did this scared myself half to death) It doesn't help and everyone heals differently. I think it's down to positive mental attitude.
• Get a round cushion with a hole, it's very comfy to sit on (believe me it is a must)
• Ask for Senna or Lactulose in hospital ASAP after (your body slightly goes into shock and you don't want to go, to begin with) this will pass but the medication will help.
• Don't underestimate the surgery you’re having, do exactly as you’re told and it does work!
• Buy a water boiler that boils a cup at a time. This way you can still have some independence. Believe me this feels good.
• Think about things in your cupboards, you don't want to be stretching for a while.
• Have supportive friends and family looking after you

© Beverley Dale 2010

Oh Dita, I hope you're doing your Kegels!

Corsets are sexy, sure they are. What better way to instantly lose inches off your waist, simultaneously enhance your breasts and straighten up your posture. They've been around for ages and they're here to stay. We are already aware of the advantages to wearing that super sexy corset but do you also know about all of the disadvantages? Especially to your pelvic floor!

Starting the very next day after corsets were invented, health problems were already popping up. Fainting was commonplace, and it would if you couldn't take in a full breath as you breathe. Deformities of the stomach and liver were noticed; floating ribs were bending in unnatural directions and let's not forget organ displacement!

There's also the added pressure of the internal organs bearing down on the pelvic muscles. Think about it, all that pressure needs to go somewhere so it follows the direction of the least resistance, namely your pelvic floor!

We already put our PC muscles under constant strain every time we run, jump, laugh, sneeze or cough. Why do we add to the problem with ill-fitting waist cinchers?

You Don't Have to Stop Wearing Corsets!

It may sound like we're being all anti-corset here but nothing could be farther from the truth! What's sexier than Dita Von Teese wearing a corset performing one of her signature shows? Choose quality corsets which also support your lower abdomen or choose much more comfortable 'fashion corset tops'. These fashion corsets aren't meant to be worn as tight as their more expensive counterparts but still give an appealing look and shape. Most importantly of course would be to really work on your pelvic floor exercises. Kegel exercises will help keep your pelvic floor fit and resist the strain of your internal organs. A weakened pelvic floor will only lead to stress incontinence or urinary incontinence and there's nothing sexy about that!

So you've been diagnosed with faecal incontinence or you're worried it could affect you in the near future. Did you know that it is preventable and in some cases even reversible? We recently had a customer call in asking about using her Kegel8 Ultra A. She was diagnosed with faecal incontinence and wanted to know how she could use her Kegel8 pelvic floor exerciser to the best of her advantage.

Is There a Recommended Schedule?

If your Kegel8 doesn’t come with an anal programme, here are the instructions on how to program it in. If you need any help, please contact our helpline. Alternatively, you can send it back to us and we can program it in for you! It's a 15 minute programme which is to be used once a day while standing up. If you are using your Kegel8 vaginally as well, you can alternate days. Do not use the machine more than once a day as this will only fatigue your pelvic floor and be counterproductive. In addition to using your Kegel8 anal programme, you should also be doing 10 minutes a day of manual kegel exercises.

How Long Should I Be Using My Kegel8?

Generally, you will be using it about 6 to 8 weeks or until you see results. Our customer told us that her GP advised her that she no longer needed surgery! How's that for a result!

Once you've attained your desired results, as with any exercise you have to maintain them. Once or twice a week should do to keep your pelvic floor fit.

Why can't I get my mA's over 20?

This programme was designed by physiotherapists specifically for rectal use with anal prolapse and fecal incontinence in mind. Anything higher than 20 mA's and your sphincter muscles will fatigue with overuse. What you want is gradual strength training rather than wearing yourself out.

Urinary incontinence in men doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of getting older. It can happen at any age for any number of reasons. It can be caused by a weak urinary sphincter, an overactive bladder or a bladder that doesn't contract. Having a prostatectomy is the leading reason behind male stress incontinence.

I've been diagnosed with stress incontinence, what are my options?

Your doctor may advise you on medication, penile clamps, collagen injections or a condom like external catheter attached to a drainage bag. If surgery needed there's an artificial sphincter, urinary diversion and the most common sling procedure; where a strip of material is wrapped around the urethra and attached to each side of the pelvic bone.

Can stress incontinence in men be cured without surgery?

Performing regular pelvic floor exercises or use of a pelvic floor exerciser can help improve or completely regain bladder control. For a handy how-to, have a look at "How can I exercise my pelvic floor?" from our article on piles prevention. These exercises have an added benefit of harder, longer lasting erections and a slightly larger penis. You'll reap the added rewards of greater stamina and control too! Who wouldn't like that?

The Kegel8 Incontinence Blacklist also applies to men as does cutting back on smoking, steering clear of constipation and keeping your weight down. Keep this in mind and you can avoid surgery all together!

Most users find the comprehensive range of programmes on the Kegel8 sufficient for their needs; however some Clinicians have personal programmes they like to use. On the Kegel8 programmes PC1, PC2 and PC3 are 'spare', this means they are not pre-programmed and they have been left free for you or a Clinician to programme them for your particular needs.

Would you like to change the intensity of your Kegel8? Would you like to add an anal programme? Adding your own Kegel8 pelvic floor programme is easy! Please follow these guidelines, if you need any help call our helpline.

For those of you who don't feel confident enough to do this you are welcome to return the unit to us and we'll add an extra programme for you!

Anal programme for Kegel8 Ultra

We are going to set the anal programme to effectively work your anal sphincter muscle and the posterior of your pelvic floor muscles. For this we will use 35Hz with a pulse width (µS) of 220. We'll have a ramp- up time of 0.8 seconds, and we'll have a work time of 5 seconds, and rest for 8 seconds.

Let's get started:

1. Press the on button to switch the Kege8 Ultra unit on
2. Press the PRG button until PC1, PC2 or PC3 is selected. If you have not already customised a programme lets select PC1.
3. Press and hold the SET button for a few seconds until Hz flashes
4. Press the Channel B - button to set the frequency to 35 Hz
5. Press the Channel A + button the µS symbol will flash, Press the Channel B + to set to 220.
6. Press the Channel A + the MIN symbol will flash. Press the Channel B – button to set to 15 mins.
7. Press the Channel A + twice. WK will appear. Press the Channel B + button to set to 5 seconds.
8. Press the Channel A + RT will appear. Press the Channel B + button to set to 8 seconds.
9. Press the Channel A + RP will appear. Press the Channel B + button to set to 0.8 seconds.
10. Press the Channel A + SY will appear.
11. Press PRG to save.

• We recommend you use the anuform probe for this anal programme; it is specially designed for anal use. However if you want to target your anal sphincter muscle directly, you'll get better results with the Ultra Thin probe.
• For men using this programme to help strengthen the pelvic floor for stronger erections we recommend you use the longer thinner ultra thin probe.

Anal programme for Kegel8 Tight & Tone Pelvic Exerciser

We are going to set your Kegel8 Tight & Tone with an anal programme to effectively work your anal sphincter muscle and the back of your pelvic floor. We'll use a pulse frequency of 35Hz with a pulse width (µS) of 220. We'll have a ramp- up time of 0.8 seconds, the muscle will contract or 'work' for 5 seconds, and rest for 8 seconds.

Let's get started:

1. Press the on button to switch the Kege8 Tight & Tone unit on
2. Press the PRG button until PC1, PC2 or PC3 is selected. If you have not already customised a programme lets select PC1.
3. Remove the battery cover from the unit.
4. Press and hold the SET button for a few seconds until Hz flashes
5. Press the Channel B - button to set the frequency to 35 Hz
6. Press the Channel A + button the µS symbol will flash, Press the Channel B + to set to 220.
7. Press the Channel A + the MIN symbol will flash. Press the Channel B – button to set to 15 mins.
8. Press the Channel A + twice. WRK will appear. Press the Channel B + button to set to 5 seconds.
9. Press the Channel A + RST will appear. Press the Channel B + button to set to 8 seconds.
10. Press the Channel A + RMP will appear. Press the Channel B + button to set to 0.8 seconds.
11. Press the Channel A + SYN will appear.
12. Press ESC to save.

• We recommend you use the anuform probe for this anal programme; it is specially designed for anal use. However if you want to target your anal sphincter muscle directly, you'll get better results with the Ultra Thin probe.
• For men using this programme to help strengthen the pelvic floor for stronger erections we recommend you use the longer thinner ultra thin probe.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and here at Kegel8 we will be taking part in the Wear it Pink Breast Cancer Campaign on 29 October 2010. We are committed to Women's Health Issues and believe a healthy pair of breasts is just as important as a fit pelvic floor!

Every year in the UK, just over 12,000 people die from breast cancer and approximately 46,000 people are diagnosed, including nearly 300 MEN! This works out to one person every 11 minutes! How many could have been saved if they had performed a monthly Breast Self Exam (BSE) for early detection?

When and How Often?

Women should start performing monthly checks as early as in their 20's. The best time to do a BSE is 2 or 3 days after the end of your period, this allows the tenderness and swelling caused by hormones to subside. If you are irregular, pick a date and do them the same day every month. It's important to get to know your breasts, to know what's normal and what's not. A good starting point would be to have a clinical breast exam with your next smear test and every one thereafter. Women age 40 and older should begin having screening mammograms every year.

So How Should I Feel My Breasts?

So now that you know the facts about Breast Cancer, how about a demonstration on how to actually DO the BSE? First off, find a comfortable and private place. While using your Kegel8 Pelvic Floor Exerciser would be an idea. In the bath or shower is also recommended since the soapy water will help your hands glide over your breasts easier. Now that you've picked a spot, have a look at this demonstration video. You may want to watch it again and again, just to get the technique down of course!

...but you don't know her, she dosen't live in this town... and I never talk to her on the phone, you will never see her at any of my get togethers. Ok I lied.

It's me.

Sound familiar? Are you guilty of telling the same story? Why do we do this? Why are we so embarrased to talk about stress incontinence? If 1 in 3 women are known to have a weak bladder, (and these are only the ones who fess up!) why are we still so shy talking about it?

Think about when it happens to you. You're laughing, you leak a little, you stop laughing and look around all sneaky as if to see if any one saw you. How many times have you noticed other ladies do the same? Do they all nip off to the loo just like you do?

Why not take the initiative and the next time you're in a fit of laughter, be the first to admit you dribbled a little, you will be surprised to find at least one other person come clean as well. Isn't it a relief to know you're not alone?

Together you can do something about it

Now that you have an ally or two, you can remind eachother about doing the all important kegel exercises. Or each person try out different devices used to strengthen your pelvic floor, for example kegel exercise cones or an electronic pelvic floor exerciser. After a couple of weeks, get together for drinks and compare notes. As an added bonus, since a fit pelvic floor is key to a tight vagina, everyone will have some steamy details to spill about how things have improved in the bedroom!

More Customer Feedback

We are still receiving your feedback about the Kegel8. Thank you very much for keeping us informed! Today I'd like to address some of the negative feedback we received. Often times, the problems are easily resolved!

Most of the calls we get about the Kegel8 are women complaining that it's not working for them.

• Find it makes little to no difference
• It's not working for me

When we ask these ladies to walk us through what they're doing, it's usually because they haven't been raising the milliamps. The plus and minus buttons in the display control the milliamp level. Press the + button until you feel the contraction and leave it at a level where you're comfortable.

We get some ladies finding that it works great at first but the effects don't always stick

• I have used it religiously everyday but had no positive results to note
• The difference is negligible. I did use it daily for first 4mths, but it didn't pay off that well
• It's effects have not lasted

Just like any exercise, you have to increase the intensity to see results. Weightlifters don't get so big and strong by lifting a pink 3kg dumbell for years on end. When you no longer feel the contractions with your Kegel8, this means your pelvic floor has strengthened to that level. Raise your milliamps a few more steps and make it even stronger. You also have to keep using it to maintain the muscle tone you've attained.

Here's another common complaint, the instructions!

• Because the instructions are not good enough so i don't know if it works
• Instructions unclear

Instruction manuals are well known for their lack of clarity. No matter how well anyone writes a manual, there will be an audience out there that will find it difficult.

This is why we have customer service available via Email, by phone at 01482 496 932. Alternatively call us for free via Skype by pressing the 'Call Me!' button below...

There are times when any electrical product is found to have a problem with the workmanship.

• It's so much money, how do I know it will work? What if it breaks?
• Great results but not made to last

Your Kegel8 is supplied with a manufacturers 1 year warranty as standard. However you may wish to Extend this Warranty an extra year for just £9.99. If your Kegel8 becomes faulty during year 2 we'll replace it for FREE. Please note this warranty does not cover probes or batteries, which will need to be replaced as necessary due to wear and tear.

Finally, this is a problem is more a universal complaint rather than one specifically geared for Kegel8 products.

• Easy to use but just need to find spare the time in your day.

For this, I say stay tuned! There will be a future article listing the 5 Perfect Times to Use Your Kegel8 Pelvic Floor Exerciser.

According to the Bladder and Bowel Foundation, National Continence Awareness Week for this year is from 20 September to 26 September. Just how much do you know about Stress Incontinence?

Stress incontinence affects 200 million people world wide. It may also be hereditary. Studies show 33% of men and women ages 30 - 70 have at some point experienced loss of bladder control. Within this group, 29% of people aged 60-70 endure stress incontinence compared to 17% of people ages 30 - 39.

Are you surprised by these numbers? How many times have you been with a group, maybe at work or socially, where someone laughs then jokes that they've wet themselves. How many times have you silently thought to yourself, "Oh, me too!" You are obviously not alone in this, no matter what your age. Thankfully there are steps you can take to eradicate the problem

In the short term there's pads and diapers, men can use catheters. Some people have even give up all together to avoid accidents in social situations by staying at home! Do you really want to do that?

As far as long term help there's always surgery. There's the Tension-Free Vaginal Tape or TVT, and there's the Transobturator Tape or TOT surgery. Surgery is never fun. Neither is recovery. They can say it's non-invasive all they like but when you are getting poked and prodded on a table in theatre wearing nothing but a hospital gown surrounded by strangers while your feet are up in stirrups, I wouldn't want to see what their idea of invasive was really like!

In the meantime, there are measures you can take to prevent surgery and even get did of the problem all together. Here is an Incontinence Blacklist of commonly used items which can cause or worsen urinary incontinence. Having a strong pelvic floor helps keep your bladder under control, you are doing your kegel exercises aren't you?

If you're unsure whether or not you're doing the kegels properly, there are devices out there that can do the work for you. Any of the Kegel8 Machines will help and they can be used while watching tv or reading. The Kegel8 Exercise Cones are non-electronic but the unique indicator lets you know when you are exercising the correct muscles.

This year's National Continence Awareness Week will concentrate mainly on stress incontinence. TENA will be working together with the Bladder and Bowel Foundation to raise awareness of stress incontinence and those affected. If you would like to help out with a donation, please visit them at the Bladder and Bowel Foundation website.

Thank you.

Is technology improving our sex lives? When hasn't it? Birth control pills, condoms, fertility monitors, pornographic films and vibrators were all at one point products of cutting edge technology.

While some may argue that technology is actually hampering our sex lives by making us more distant, we here at Kegel8 think it literally brings us closer together. Devices used for solo sex have been known to benefit when we later have sex with a partner. For men it can assist with premature ejaculation by getting used to different kinds of stimulation, eventually lasting longer in bed. For women, it helps to explore their bodies finding what feels good and what doesn’t. This way she can later communicate this with her partner and bring continuous mutual enjoyment. For both sexes, it provides a safe and stress free way to enjoy sex with no performance anxiety because when you're by yourself, it's all about you, baby!

Women by far have the bigger share of the market when it comes to sex technology. We're not just talking about vibrators either. Studies have shown that doing your Kegels improve orgasms, increase blood circulation to the genitals and heighten arousal during sex. Pelvic floor exercisers, used primarily for stress incontinence, have been found to have an amazing side benefit. By keeping your pelvic muscles in tip-top shape, the vagina becomes tighter and more responsive during sex (and what man wouldn't enjoy that?!?). Women have reported more frequent and earth-shattering orgasms (and what woman wouldn't enjoy that?!?). Wouldn't it be fun to show your partner just how tight you can squeeze him the next time you have sex?

Even using a simple machine such as the Kegel8 Exercise Cones makes an astounding difference in both vaginal tightness, and pelvic floor strength. It really makes you wonder why more people don't use it!

If you think about it, everywhere we look our sex lives are filled with technological advances. I tell you what, I wouldn't have it any other way!

For more information: Kegel8 Exercise Cones guide and instructions

When making a decision on a purchase, we all like to hear what real people have to say. We recently asked customers to review their purchase by asking them, "Would you recommend the Kegel8 to a friend?" Here is a list of some of the praises we received. Just to be fair, I will also go over and address some of the concerns we got back in a future post.

Our first group of ladies have found it relieves back pain associated with weak pelvic floor muscles and have even prevented surgery!

• "It helped me not only with pelvic strengthening but also relieved my back ache that I had due to bladder prolapse. It's an exellent product and is worth every penny I paid for it!"
• "Fixed my prolapse and my incontienece without surgery!!!"
• "In fact I have recommended to a few of my friends. I have even said to my daughter to get one especially if she does have a baby. I feel I suffered a lot with my problems and would hate to think anyone suffering too. I feel this product is doing the trick and is saving me from having to have surgery."

Our next group are happy to tell us about how quick and easy the Kegel8 is to use.

• "Easier than trying to do the Kegel exercises yourself."
• "I have used another product for some time with no improvement at all, the Kegel8 felt more effective immediately, and the effects from using it were felt very quickly, this one actually works, and I am delighted."
• "Easy to use, painfree."

Here we hear about the improved self-esteem and increased confidence in social situations.

• "Because it works!! Gives back self esteem."
• "It improved things for me very quickly. I'll never be normal but at least I can go out now without having to worry about pain and toilet etc"
• "Because it helped me feel more confident to go out for a run with fear of embarrassing damp patches!!"
• "Can deal with problem privately"

Here are the printable rave reviews we get about the added bonus you get from having a well toned pelvic floor!

• "It gave me back my sex life"
• "Great sex toy if your partner is tied down what an orgasm"
• "This is fantastic and I cant praise highly enough. It's made an amazing difference to me and my husband!!"
• "I haven't used the cones much but I did use the Tight and Tone. It's brilliant. No more pads for dribbles lol and climax, well now I can hit the roof, hee hee! Thanks Kegel8"

Oh my! Glad we could be of assistance, ladies! I think I will leave you all with one final quote which really sums up the whole experience overall.

• "Because it is a small price to pay to make a big difference to your life."

Do you have any feedback to share with us? Leave us a comment and we can anonomously post your praise or concern in a future post. We are also planning on rolling out a Refer-a-Friend program soon so keep checking back!

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and in the case of piles, no words have ever been truer. Haemorrhoids are in fact avoidable and taking steps now could save you the agony.

What causes piles?

The tissue in your rectum is rich in blood vessels. When this tissue is repeatedly stressed, over time the blood vessels become dilated and swollen and the tissue becomes weak. This can be from constipation, being overweight and pregnancy.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include a swelling protuberance from the anus which will feel like small fleshy lumps and will look like a bunch of grapes. Rectal bleeding, a mucus discharge and itchy skin around the anus will also tell you there's a problem.

Is this preventable?

Yes, and prevention is simple. We all know we need to drink 8 glasses of water and eat our 5 a day every day. This will help keep your poo soft and easy for elimination. Straining to poo will only make matters worse. Take regular breaks when sitting or standing for long periods. Get some exercise! Even a daily 20 minute walk will help circulate the blood and help you lose weight. If you're really straining to poo, there are waterbased lubricants which can help.

Pelvic floor exercises will help keep your rectal muscles taut, toned and free from sagging. It also increases blood circulation in the area thus preventing blood from pooling. Pelvic floor exercises have also been known to aid in rectal prolapse and anal incontinence which are also caused by weak pelvic muscles.

How can I exercise my pelvic floor?

First we need to identify the muscles we want to target. Squeeze your rectum as if trying to hold back wind or poo. You can also place a lubricated finger inside your rectum and squeeze. If you can feel your rectum clench around your finger, you've found it. Practise contracting and holding for 5 seconds at a time then resting for 6. Do this for about 20 minutes a day.

Kegel8 offers a range of products to help assist in strengthening your rectum. The Kegel8 Ultra Vaginal and Anal Sphincter Muscle Exerciser will get you started. It comes with a full instruction book and 14 programmes with pre-set vaginal and specialist anal programme. If you've already purchased a Kegel8 device, there are interchangeable probes available which can be used to help strengthen your back passage.

Pelvic floor exercisers and accessories to help prevent piles

Anal Incontinence

• Do you have a problem controlling your wind?
• Do you have Stress Incontinence?
• Do you suffer with constipation?

If you answer YES to any of the above, you are at risk of developing anal incontinence and small changes now can make a big difference. If a leaking bladder is taboo, then faecal incontinence or anal incontinence is a total no-no, but a staggering 28% of women with stress incontinence are also anally incontinent. It doesn't have to be 'messing' ourselves, just the inability to control wind, but if you are that 'windy-pop woman' look out, because it is the early signs that you need to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and make some changes.

What is it?

Medics use the term bowel or anorectal dysfunction (which includes the bowel, rectum or anus). This dysfunction usually falls into two categories, one is difficulty in having a poo, and the other is the inability to store wind and/or faecal material until the right time and place. Those with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) may alternate between the two states.

What factors contribute to anal incontinence?

Childbirth - Vaginal deliveries account for 0.04%-5% of women developing anal incontinence. Anal sphincter tears resulting from vaginal deliveries account for 7% of cases.

Age - the older we get the more at risk we are of anal incontinence and uncontrollable wind.

Perineal surgery, anal fissure, fistula, haemorrhoids, childbirth or accidental injury - because damage to the sphincter can stop it closing when it should.

Hysterectomy - 31% of women reported a severe deterioration in the squeeze pressure to their anal sphincter muscles after surgery.

Abuse - a small study of abusive or unwanted anal penetrative sexual activity (rape) showed that all had sphincter damage.

Chronic Straining - can stretch and damage nerves in the sphincter and/or pelvic floor.  Straining makes you more inclined to haemorrhoids which can result in rectal prolapse.

Nerve damage caused by childbirth, constipation or stroke, including nerve degenerating diseases such as diabetes and multiple sclerosis.

Diarrhoea caused by a mild infection or food reaction can cause temporary problems of incontinence that can last for a few days. Chronic conditions such as IBS and Crohns disease can cause diarrheal lasting for weeks or months until a successful treatment is found.

Pelvic floor dysfunction such as rectal prolapse, protrusion of the rectum through the vagina (rectocele) and general weakness and sagging of the pelvic floor.

Enterocele - prolapse of the small intestine that sits just behind the uterus - the intestine can slip into the space between the rectum and the back wall of the vagina. Enterocele can also occur at the same time as a rectocele.

Medication that interferes with the intestinal absorption of dietary fats such as Orlistat in the US, Alli and Xenical in the UK.

What can you do?

Diet

• Loose poo - add bulk and fibre to make it firmer.
• Avoid foods and drinks containing caffeine which act as a stimulant and relax the internal anal sphincter muscle.
• Milk products and artificial sweeteners can make your poo looser.
• Five a day, fruit and or vegetables if you suffer with constipation.
• Fruit can act as a natural laxative so eat sparingly if you have diarrhoea or loose poo.
• Friendly bacteria - It is believed that prebiotics and probiotics work well together to help colonic bacteria to maintain normal digestion. Prebiotics are non digestible carbohydrates that stimulate good bacteria to grow in your gut and can be found in bananas, asparagus, garlic, wheat, tomatoes, onions, chicory & Jerusalem artichoke. Probiotics such as Actimel, Yakult & Bio yoghurts have live bacteria added.
• Drink 1.5 litres of water a day; increase this if you are very active.

Medication

We spend over £43 billion a year on laxatives her in the UK

You might need to take something to help you go, or not to go - as the case may be. Drugs including anticholinergics, diuretics, oral iron supplements, sympathomimetics, antacids, antihypertensives and NSAIDS may be causing your constipation - talk to your GP about an alternative.

Some laxatives have possible side effects so make sure you use the one that's right for you. Watch out for stimulant laxatives such as senna, Dulcolax, bisacodyl and glycerol suppositories. These should only be used as a short-term solution; long-term use can result in the bowel muscles weakening and literally stopping working.

Bowel Retraining

If you have frequency and urgency - bowel retaining can help, including a four stage 'holding-on' programme developed by St Mark's Hospital.

Biofeedback

Medical studies have shown that exercises and electrical stimulation used in the anus may be more helpful than vaginal exercises for women with faecal incontinence after childbirth.

Biofeedback has been reported in improving cases of faecal incontinence - continued use seems to work best. Significant improvements have been reported with the peritron perineometers.

Neuromuscular Stimulation

Muscle stimulation has been used for many years to re-educate and strengthen muscles. The Kegel8 Ultra A has a specially designed programme for the posterior pelvic floor compartment.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Kegel exercises and more targeted anal sphincter exercise can help restore muscle tone, and reduce or even eliminate anal incontinence. Squeezing and lifting exercises, targeting the anus (as if trying to stop a poo or wind) should be performed, just like ordinary pelvic floor exercises.  Alternate strong holds for a longer duration with shorter faster holds. Tests have found that a squeeze of at least 20 seconds is necessary to control faecal urgency with liquid poo.  Self checking can include using a mirror to see the lift, as well as a finger inserted to feel the squeeze of the anal sphincter.

If you're doing your exercises manually without a Kegel8 Ultra A you'll notice great muscle improvement if you exercise at least three times a day, with the Kegel8 Ultra A use the programme once a day which can also be supported with manual exercises too.

Massage

Abdominal massage has been found to be as affective as laxatives for constipation (without the nasty side-effects of abdominal pain, wind and discomfort. Massage is ideal to be used with other techniques, but not after recent abdominal surgery.

Physiotherapy

A woman's health physiotherapist can help you develop a 'defaecation technique'.  Lean forward when you sit on the loo, forearms and upper body weight on your thigh - this shifts your abdominal contents. Support your feet on a footstool or 15cm with your heels raised. Flex your hips to a 90 degree angle; keep your spine in a neutral curve.

Medical definitions

• Anal Incontinence - involuntary loss of flatus (wind) liquid or solid per anus that is a social or hygienic problem. *
• Anismus - also known as spastic pelvic floor syndrome, anal sphincter dyssynergia, dyssynergic defecation and paradoxal puborectal contraction - muscles of the anus fail to relax when you try to poo. *
• Constipation - includes straining, lumpy or hard poo, incomplete poo, sensation of blockage, less than 3 poos a week.
• Descending Perineum Syndrome - bulging perineum associated with pooing.
• Dyschezia - difficulty pooing after voluntary holding-back.
• Faecal Incontinence - involuntary loss of liquids or solids from the anus. *
• Megacolon - abnormal massive dilation of the colon can be congenital, toxic or acquired.
• Megarectum - abnormal dilation of the rectum.
• Paradoxical puborectalis contraction - failure of the muscle to relax to allow you to poo. *
• Paradoxical anal sphincter contraction - failure of the anal sphincter to relax to allow you to poo. *
• Passive Soiling - losing poo or liquid without realising. *
• Pelvic floor dyssynergia - uncoordinated pelvic floor muscle activity.
• Proctalgia fugax - sudden sever pain affecting the rectum lasting anything from minutes to hours.

_{* Conditions marked with an asterisk can all be helped with the Kegel8 Ultra A}

Glossary

Leroi et al (1999)
Pirkko Raivio Specialist Continence Physiotherapist Finland 2001 - Faecal Incontinence Protocol
Physiotherapy in Obstetrics and Gynaecology - Jill Mantle, Jeanette Haslam, Sue Barton.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse - The Silent Epidemic - Sherrie J.Palm

Living with a Prolapse

It's estimated that 34million women worldwide are affected by vaginal prolapse; but as many are reluctant to discuss their symptoms, this number could be much higher.

The idea of having a vaginal or rectal prolapse (or both) can be highly embarrassing for women, with many enduring the symptoms for years unknowingly thinking it cannot be rectified. But it can!

How does it happen?Normally, the pelvic organs are held in place by the pelvic floor muscles which act like a sling to hold the bladder, uterus and bowel. However, when the pelvic floor becomes weakened or stretched, they can become too slack to hold these organs effectively. The uterus is the only organ that actually falls into the vagina, whilst when the bladder and bowel fall out of place, they push up against the vagina. Factors contributing to weakened pelvic floor include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Ageing and the menopause
• Obesity or large fibroids

How will it affect me? Although prolapse is not life threatening, it can cause a great deal of discomfort and embarrassment; it's not uncommon for women to have a double prolapse which can lead to both urinary incontinence and faecal constipation. Symptoms include severe backache, pain during intercourse and sometimes a 'dragging down' feeling in the pelvis.

If the prolapse is severe, surgery may be the viable option and can be done freely on the NHS. However, some forms of prolapse can be rectified by vaginal pessaries and kegel exercises.

What you can do: The best cure is prevention; kegel exercises to strengthen the muscles can help avoid prolapse, we recommend the Kegel8 Tight & Tone for those wishing to tone up your stretched muscles. The Kegel8 Ultra is recommended for those with an existing prolapse and can also be used after surgery to avoid a relapse. If you are living with prolapse at the moment, the following hints and tips could help alleviate some of your symptoms:

• Avoid standing for long periods of time
• Do frequent and effective pelvic floor exercises
• Prevent constipation by incorporating enough fibre in your diet
• Wear a girdle: this can help make you feel a bit more secure
• Try yoga: great for toning your core muscles

The bottom line here is - prolapse can be avoided, so get working those Kegel8 exercises! If you think you may have a prolapse, or have any of the symptoms described above, we highly recommend you get checked out by your GP.

If you think you have a form of incontinence, you need to visit your GP to get more information of what's causing your incontinence, and what can be done to treat it.

TIP! Why not print out your results from the 'So you think you have Incontinence?' article to illustrate clearly what your symptoms are. To make your appointment easier, quicker and more productive, follow these simple steps to help you and your doctor understand your symptoms and situation:

1. Keep a diary for a few days to track your fluid intake and output. The more specific you are the better. For each 3-hour period, make note of the following:
- What and how much you drank
- How much urine you released when you went to the bathroom. Was it a little, or a lot? Did your bladder feel completely emptied after you'd finished?

2. If and when you feel yourself leaking urine, make a note of the following:
- How much urine did you leak? A little, or a lot? Did you have to change your underwear?
- What you were doing when the leakage occurred?
- What level of urgency you experienced before urinating; none, some, high?

3. Don't forget to note any night-time disturbances:
- How many times did you get up to go to the bathroom?
- Were you able to empty your bladder?

Obviously, if you have a severe heart condition, we're not recommending that you suddenly stop taking your medication; we just want our Kegel8 followers to be informed and aware.
Here are five commonly prescribed medications to those of incontinence-affected age:

1. Alpha-adrenergic blockers - commonly used to treat hypertension aka high blood pressure. However, they relax the bladder and urethra which can cause and worsen stress incontinence in some women.
2. Cholinesterase inhibitors - goes under trade names like Aricept and Exelon, they are used to manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. However, they can increase the frequency of bladder contractions and worsen urge incontinence.
3. Anticholinergic effect-drugs - these drugs are used to block neurotransmitters in the brain and are used widely to treat a number of things from depression to Parkinson’s disease. They can worsen incontinence as they interfere with bladder contraction.
4. Opioids - treatment for serious pain relief such morphine and codeine. However, these drugs interfere with the bladder and can cause overflow incontinence.
5. Hormone therapy (HRT): The oestrogen-progestin combination in HRT can cause or worsen the incontinence in some women. Yet another addition to our ever growing list of HRT: shall I, shan't I take it?

If you are on any of these medications and feel that they are indeed worsening your condition, why not have a chat with your GP to discuss other possible options that may not interfere with your incontinence? Until then, happy Kegelling!

If you think you may have incontinence but you're not quite sure, take our simple questionnaire below to determine your symptoms.

Mostly orange: You could have... Overflow Incontinence. You may have a feeling that your bladder is full, even after you have been to the toilet. This is caused when the muscles around your bladder are not able to squeeze the bladder empty. It is commonly as a result of nerve or muscle damage, perhaps caused by diabetes, multiple sclerosis, surgery or injury. Because you can't empty your bladder completely, the bladder and its associated muscles become slack and less controlled; this causes urine leaking.

Mostly blue: You could have... Urge Incontinence. This is caused by the involuntary bladder contractions that occur as the bladder fills. With this form of incontinence, you will probably be aware of the urgent sensation but will be unable to stop a leakage before getting to the toilet. Urge incontinence usually has 'triggers', such as hearing running water or 'key-in-the-door' syndrome; knowing that you will soon be able to go to the toilet can cause bladder contractions.

Mostly red: You could have... Stress Incontinence. This form of incontinence is extremely common and affects over 2 million people in the UK. Stress incontinence occurs when the muscles in the pelvic floor or sphincter have been weakened or damaged. This is typically caused by childbirth, menopause, being overweight, constipation or chronic coughing.

If you think you could have a form on incontinence, don't delay! Remember: incontinence is not for life, it can easily be treated. We recommend that you take a look at our range of Kegel8 pelvic toners to treat your incontinence, visit your GP, or alternatively, for more information on pelvic toners call the Kegel8 line on 01482 496932.

We've compiled a few of the most commonly-used things that can both cause and worsen your case of incontinence; you might want to stay well clear of them!

Alcohol: Yep, sorry ladies but that much needed 'after work glass-then-bottle of wine' is doing more damage than you suspected! Alcohol increases urine production and makes you dehydrated- which then makes you drink more. It's a revolving circle!

Stay away from: Vodka & Red Bull, Whisky & Coke. Not only are these tipples alcoholic but the added caffeine from the mixers will make your condition even worse. If you really need a pick me up or a de-stress:

Treat yourself to: A glass (singular!) of Red wine or a single measure of Brandy. Red wine can lower cholesterol and keep heart disease at bay, whilst Brandy contains immune-boosting anti-oxidants and is great in winter if you've got a cold!

Decongestants: If like me, you suffer from troublesome sinuses, Sudafed is probably your best friend and confidant come sinus time! However, decongestants like this actually tighten the urinary sphincter and can cause urinary retention and overflow incontinence.

Solution? If you're feeling stuffy, try getting a bowl of hot water; put a couple of drops of tea tree oil or menthol in there. Hover your face over the steamy bowl and cover your head with a towel to keep the steam in. Close eyes and inhale. Is also great for opening pores pre-facial!

Caffeine: Say goodbye to tea, coffee, cola, and energy drinks! Why? It increases urine production. If you're finding it hard to stay awake after a night of hot sweats or a crying infant (us women have all the fun, I know) caffeine can actually make you more irritable and dehydrated than to start with.

Solution? Try Green Tea or herbal tea with 'natural' caffeine properties such as Gingko or Guarana.

If you are purchasing a Kegel8 Tight & Tone or Kegel8 Ultra to treat an existing medical condition such as stress incontinence or bladder weakness, you are entitled to claim VAT relief. In order to receive this relief you must complete and submit a VAT declaration. This is self certification. You do not need your GP's endorsement but we must retain your declaration form on our files should the VAT Inspector wish to verify our claim on your behalf.

• A VAT refund can only be granted when we receive your signed declaration.
• Your declaration can be in paper form, posted or sent by fax, or by e mail with your signature.
• Kegel8 Tight and Tone, Kegel8 Ultra, Kegel8 Plus, Athena, and all dedicated accessories (except batteries) qualify for relief.
• Postage and courier charges do not qualify.
• You cannot claim exemption if you are purchasing the equipment for any form of professional or business use.

How do I get my VAT back?

You can either:

• 1. If you think you qualify you can click "add to basket" on the cheaper priced option. This will send you to a new product page, where the price is minus the VAT. 
• 2. This new product page will include a VAT Exemption form, please fill this in and then add the product to your basket.

or

• 1. If you think you qualify please place your order and initially pay the VAT.
• 2. When we send your order we will include a VAT Exemption form, please fill it in and return it to us within 14 days.
• 3. When we have received your signed declaration we will, within 5 working days, refund the amount of VAT you paid. If you paid by credit card, cheque, or paypal we will refund you accordingly and send you notification.

Please note that certain accessories, postage and courier charges do not qualify for exemption and VAT will be charged on these items at the normal rate.

In submitting this form you are declaring that you have read and understood the VAT exemption rules described and referred to above and that the goods you have ordered from N E Services Mail Order trading as StressNoMore.co.uk are for your own use and you are claiming that the supply of these goods is eligible for relief from VAT.

This is the information you'll find on your VAT exemption certificate. Remember you don't have to get your Doctors authorisation, it is a form of self certification.

FIRST NAME _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

SURNAME _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

ADDRESS _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

POSTCODE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

MEDICAL CONDITION _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

DATE: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

You've now used your Kegel8 and you have some questions:

Q How often should I use the Kegel8?

Initially we recommend you use the Kegel8 once a day for 12 weeks. Always use the KE Gel because it actually helps to make your Kegel8 exercising even more effective. You can use your Kegel8 during your period if you wish, and it is a great way to relieve menstrual cramps and period pain.

After your initial 12 week daily routine you can move onto a maintenance programme, that's exercising a couple of times a week. Some women who have a particularly weak pelvic floor continue using it daily until they are much stronger.

Q. I can't get the mA's past 6, 7 or 8, 9, 10, 11.

If you do not get an effective contact with the probe you will find that you cannot increase the mA's up to a suitable level to exercise you effectively. The mA's will go to 6, 7 or 8, 9, 10, 11 but no higher, it will then return to zero, or switch off the Kegel8. This is a cut-off device and it means that you are not getting direct contact with the probe at all times. The probe must maintain contact with your pelvic floor muscle at all times to exercise it properly. If this happens with your machine, it is not a machine fault; it is probe positioning that is at fault.

What do you need to do?

1. Make sure the probe is inserted as far as possible. You might like to wear Sloggies or some tight pants to make sure it remains in place, or a tight pair of trousers.
2. Make sure the metal parts of the probe (the electrodes) are facing hip to hip when the probe is inserted vaginally or anally.
3. If this is happening with the Kegel8 (tubular) probe, you might want to consider trying the wider lighter Periform probe.
4. Try not to move around too much as this may displace the probe.
5. Adjust your seating position; sit with your buttocks tightly together as if trying to hold in wind.
6. Conductivity is also improved by using the lubricant provided, it is water based, and body friendly and you'll get better results.

Q. What are mA's?

mA is the shortened term of milliampere, 1mA is one thousandth of an Ampere (A) which is used to measure the amount of electric charge. The higher the mA's the stronger the Kegel8 workout. Keep it comfortable, but aim to feel a strong contraction.

Q. How should I insert the probe?

The vaginal probe needs to be inserted just 2 inches (5.5 cm) this is the optimum level to stimulate your pelvic floor muscle. Insert it in as far as possible, make sure the electrodes (that's the metal bit) are facing hip to hip. You might find it helpful to wear a pair of tight pants such as Sloggies or even tight trousers. Keep the probe in place at all times or the machine will cut out and fail to increase the mA's (intensity).

Q. Can I use the Kegel8 if I have an IUD or Mirena coil fitted?

Yes. The Mirena is plastic so not problems there. Any IUD containing copper is unaffected by the Kegel8 and STIM so no problems there either.

Q. Can I use my Kegel8 when I have a period?

You can use your Kegel8 during your period if you wish, and it is a great way to relieve menstrual cramps and period pain as well as strengthening your pelvic floor at the same time.

Q. Can I use the Kegel8 whilst pregnant?

NICE Clinical guidelines advise against using any STIM machines vaginally during pregnancy.

Q I Can't Feel it - Is it working?

You need to adjust the mA's button, that's the plus button (+) on probe side.

Increase the mA's until you can feel the muscles contracting. When you do the hand test you'll find you can only go up to about 8mA's, vaginally you can go a lot higher but make sure you keep it comfortable, but get a strong muscle contraction. Kegel8's actually go to a maximum of 90mA's.

Increase the mA's - remember the stronger the pull, the stronger the exercise.

Q. I aim to have my mA's on 40 but on some programmes it drops to 30, why is that?

When the programme goes through its preset routine the pulse width and pulse length varies, when the pulse rate and length increase the mA's drop so that the intensity does not take you by surprise! So if you feel a decrease in intensity increase the mA's back up to a level that you can feel working.

Q. How soon after giving birth can I start with my Kegel8?

Consult with your Midwife or Doctor. Generally women feel happy to start after a successful six week check-up.

Q. I have just had pelvic surgery, how soon can I start to use the Kegel8?

Consult with your Doctor or Consultant, every case is different, but the Kegel8 could help to speed your recovery. Stress Incontinence, and prolapse is usually a sign of a weak pelvic floor, so if you have had an operation to help with either of these conditions you will still need to strengthen it. The Kegel8 is ideal, but check with your Doctor or physiotherapist.

Q I find it painful inserting the probe?

Use the lubricant, this isn't supplied just to help make insertion easier, it also helps with the conductivity. The better conductivity is the more the muscle will be exercised and the more mA's you'll be able to achieve. If you are menopausal you could be suffering from vaginal atrophy, this causes vaginal dryness, thinning of the vaginal membrane and great discomfort. If the lubricant does not help, your Doctor can prescribe a course of oestrogen cream, use this for the recommended time, and then re commence using the Kegel8. Remember the pelvic floor needs to be exercised, do not be put off by vaginal atrophy, there are easy solutions for all women to overcome this painful condition.

Q. Why are there two channels?

Channel A (left hand side) is generally used for a vaginal probe, Channel B on the right hand side is generally used for an anal probe. If you have suffered from an anal prolapse please telephone us and we can help you with a customised programme for your condition, a selection of anal probes are also available. You can also use electrodes with your Kegel8; these high quality skin electrodes can be used outside the body to help strengthen muscles even further.

Q How do I clean my probe?

Simply rinse the probe part under the tap, keeping the wires dry at all times. Do not boil the probe. If you want to use the same probe vaginally to anally this is OK, but always thoroughly clean it because bacteria can transfer from the anus.

Q Why can I only feel the stimulation on one side?

You do not have proper connectivity with the probe you need to adjust your exercising position, ensuring the probe touches both sides of the vagina/muscle wall. If your vagina has been stretched through childbirth and you are not feeling the probe on both sides, you need to sit with your legs tightly together, squeezing your pelvic floor as much as you can against the probe. Don't forget the lubricant to add greater conductivity.

Q I can't find an answer to my question?

Give us a call, we have personal experience of the Kegel8 and if we can't answer it, the medical manufactures will.

What's the best position for me?

Initially we recommend you use the Kegel8 either reclining or sitting with your legs elevated. This will help you to get used to the Kegel8 sensation and also to stop the probe being displaced. It is important that the probe maintains contact with the muscle to contract and exercise it properly. If you do not get an effective contact with the probe you will find that you cannot increase the mA's past level 6, 7 or 8. Please remember the higher the mA's the better the programme will be - more mA's = stronger pelvic exercising.

When you are sitting with your legs elevated (e.g. sitting up in bed reading) try altering the angle of your legs, bring your knees up, variations like this will alter the angle of the vagina ensuring different areas of the pelvic floor muscle are exercised, ensuring maximum contact with the probe, to enable higher mA's.

When you get more proficient you may want to move around with the Kegel8, you’ll find that you can walk, iron, watch TV or check your e mails all the time while exercising!

If you have a prolapse

If you have a prolapse, it is recommended that you do the exercises lying down with your hips elevated. Put a pillow or cushion under your bottom – this will ensure that pressure is not bearing down onto your pelvic floor as you exercise.

Kegel8 Ultra and Ultra Plus - The Programmes

The Kegel8 Ultra and Ultra Plus has 14 pelvic exercise programmes for different needs developed by healthcare professionals:

P01 Pain Relief

• Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition in your vulva. You may feel the pain as a burning, stinging, itching, irritating or a raw feeling.
• Undiagnosed pelvic pain

P02 Urge/Prolapse

• Urge incontinence - you don’t have leakage problems, just the urge to pass urine.
• Bladder and/or Vaginal prolapse

P03 Stress Incontinence 1

• Stress incontinence - You leak urine when you cough, sneeze, run or during lovemaking. This programme is set at a rate of 40Hz, the level favoured by UK physiotherapists.

P04 Stress Incontinence 2

• Stress incontinence - You leak urine when you cough, sneeze, run or during lovemaking. This programme is set at a rate of 30Hz, the level favoured by Scandinavian physiotherapists.

P05 Frequency/Urge Incontinence

• Frequency & Urge Incontinence - You have the urge and frequency to actually pass urine several times during the day and night, this programme is favoured by UK therapists and it uses a work/rest programme.
• New Mothers - you’ve had your 6 week check-up and you want to get back in shape and restore your pelvic floor. (After 12 weeks you can progress onto PO8 the thorough Pelvic Floor Workout, a couple of times a week.)

P06 & P07 Frequency Urge

• Frequency & Urge Incontinence - You have the urge and frequency to actually pass urine several times during the day and night. This programme uses continuous stimulation as used in Scandinavian countries.

P08 Lack of Sensitivity

• New Mothers - Following the birth of your baby you may have good muscle control but a lack of sensitivity.
• Following Pelvic Surgery - Nerve damage will diminish sensations; this programme helps to recondition the muscle and to facilitate nerve sprouting to regain sensitivity.

P09 Pelvic Floor Work Out

• Perimenopausal, Postmenopausal and Menopausal Women - Use this work-out to strengthen your muscles that will weaken as your oestrogen levels drop.
• All Women - An excellent overall pelvic floor workout.
• New Mothers - after 12 weeks of P05, progress onto P08 twice a week or as necessary.

P010 Endurance

• All Women - Your pelvic muscle tone is reasonable, you can contract your pelvic floor muscles but you can't hold the contraction for long. This will help you squeeze for longer.

P010 Relaxing the Pelvic Muscles

• This programme is to help relax the pelvic muscle after the excercises, when the pelvic muslce has been working hard and some fatigue may have resulted. The very low 2 Hz frequency will help to relax the muscle.

Kegel8 Tight & Tone - The Programmes

The Kegel8 Tight & Tone is preset with 9 pelvic exercise programmes for different needs developed by healthcare professionals:

P01 Pain Relief

• Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition in your vulva. You may feel the pain as a burning, stinging, itching, irritating or a raw feeling.
• Undiagnosed pelvic pain

P02 Urge/Prolapse

• Urge incontinence - you don’t have leakage problems, just the urge to pass urine.
• Bladder and/or Vaginal prolapse

P03 Stress Incontinence 1

• Stress incontinence - You leak urine when you cough, sneeze, run or during lovemaking. This programme is set at a rate of 40Hz, the level favoured by UK physiotherapists.

P04 Stress Incontinence 2

• Stress incontinence - You leak urine when you cough, sneeze, run or during lovemaking. This programme is set at a rate of 40Hz, the level favoured by Scandinavian physiotherapists.

P05 Frequency/Urge Incontinence

• Frequency & Urge Incontinence - You have the urge and frequency to actually pass urine several times during the day and night, this programme is favoured by UK therapists and it uses a work/rest programme.
• New Mothers - you’ve had your 6 week check-up and you want to get back in shape and restore your pelvic floor. (After 12 weeks you can progress onto PO8 the thorough Pelvic Floor Workout, a couple of times a week.)

P06 Frequency Urge

• Frequency & Urge Incontinence - You have the urge and frequency to actually pass urine several times during the day and night. This programme uses continuous stimulation as used in Scandinavian countries.

P07 Lack of Sensitivity

• New Mothers - Following the birth of your baby you may have good muscle control but a lack of sensitivity.
• Following Pelvic Surgery – Nerve damage will diminish sensations; this programme helps to recondition the muscle and to facilitate nerve sprouting to regain sensitivity.

P08 Pelvic Floor Work Out

• Perimenopausal, Postmenopausal and Menopausal Women – Use this work-out to strengthen your muscles that will weaken as your oestrogen levels drop.
• All Women - An excellent overall pelvic floor workout.
• New Mothers – after 12 weeks of P05, progress onto P08 twice a week or as necessary.

P09 Endurance

• All Women – Your pelvic muscle tone is reasonable, you can contract your pelvic floor muscles but you can't hold the contraction for long. This will help you squeeze for longer.

PC1, PC2 and PC3 programmes are left free for you or you Therapist to customise you a programme tailored to your requirements. Programming the unit is easy and straightforward, but most women find that our pre-set programmes are perfect for their requirements.

Who needs Kegel8?

You do! All women need a Kegel8! Your pelvic floor muscle is what’s known as an involuntary muscle and if you don’t exercise it it will atrophy, that means the mass of the muscle decreases; it can be partial or a complete wasting away. Initially you might notice the occasional “laughter leaks” or maybe reduced intimate sensation or “something coming down” these are the warning signs that your muscles need strengthening. If you want to avoid further deterioration such as prolapse you need to Kegel8.

How does a Kegel8 work?

It delivers an electronic pulse to your muscles from the probe. This pulse makes your muscles contract, automatically making them work. This is an ideal way to exercise muscles that are weak because the machine makes the muscle work. It literally brings the muscle back to life; when it is exercised it stimulates blood flow increasing your circulation, blood brings oxygen which in turn feeds your muscle making it strong and supportive once again.

What does it feel like?

It is really comfortable to use, you’ll feel a pulling sensation as the muscle contracts.

Is it just for naughty thrills?

Not at all! It is a Grade One Medical Device; it makes your pelvic floor muscles stronger, and reverses the embarrassing effects associated with a weak pelvic floor. The fact that you are using a probe in your vagina means that it is getting deep into the muscle bed to do the strengthening exercises correctly. Your love-life however will benefit from a stronger pelvic floor giving you and your partner increased sensations and deeper orgasms.

How often do I need to use it?

Initially we recommend you use it once a day for 12 weeks. Select the programme that is right for you and the Kegel8 will strength your pelvic floor - you’ll find that it is fast, efficient and easy. After your 12 week Exercise Plan, you can then reduce it to a couple of times a week.

Do I need to do it forever?

Like any exercise routine you have to incorporate it into your lifestyle, and then you will continue to reap the benefits of a strong pelvic floor. If you stop doing pelvic floor exercises your muscles will weaken again and all those benefits will be lost. With the Kegel8 maintenance is simple, just a couple of times a week will keep you tight for life!