The perineum is a set of muscles that form a hammock, between the pubis and the base of the spine. This muscle band supports the small pelvis and organs like the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The Anglo-Saxons call it the “pelvic floor” for “pelvic floor”: it really has a role of floor, hence its importance! However, in 1 in 3 women, pregnancy and childbirth cause this area to relax, resulting in urinary incontinence. In the most severe cases, this weakening can lead to prolapse, or “organ descent”. After childbirth, if you suffer from urinary incontinence despite the rehabilitation sessions (with a physiotherapist or a midwife), why not try to strengthen your muscles at home? A study published in the scientific journal “The Lancet” on women suffering from genital prolapse, demonstrated the effectiveness of rehabilitation… even twelve years after childbirth. Good to know: a perineum can be recovered at any age.
For Geeks
The connected device
Shaped like a pebble, the Elvie probe fits like a tampon. It is accompanied by a mobile application. After downloading the application, the connection with your smartphone is made by bluetooth. The exercises consist in contracting the muscles of the perineum to raise a sphere and make it take different routes. The exercises are short (6 exercises of 5 minutes) and it’s super fun: it feels like playing a game
video.
The +: an application allows you to follow the progress of the exercises performed to improve!
For neohippies
Stone eggs
“Yoni eggs” are egg-shaped stones that fit into the vagina. The idea: to contract the perineum to retain the stone as long as possible. You get used to keeping it more and more… until you forget it! Manufacturers recommend starting with a medium or large egg. After a few weeks, you can switch to a smaller egg.
Yoni eggs: 30 to 65 € depending on the model
Each stone has its specific virtues: rose quartz for self-love, red jasper for dynamism and self-confidence …
Long live the massage!
After childbirth and before rehabilitation, you can massage your perineum with a neutral oil (almond). Especially if there has been an episio, a tear, and the area is painful. Massage lightly at first, then more and more to relax the skin and help heal better.
For the naughty
The sex toy that rehabilitates
Equipped with sensors that react when muscles contract, the Lelo probe measures your level to determine which workout is right for you. Short vibration sequences guide you to tell you when to release and when to contract. It only works by training regularly …
For the lazy
Crossed electric fields
Made up of two thigh straps *, glued to the top of the thighs and the buttocks, this device works without a probe. Via crossed fields, electrical impulses work the perineum by forcing it to contract. A little surprising at first, you quickly get used to electric current. Start at 30-40 intensity, then increase the strength of the current from workout to workout for deep toning.
* (the product is now in the form of a short).
Innovo: € 399 (on medical prescription, 60% can be
covered by Social Security)
A 30-minute session = 180 contractions of the perineum.