A new pelvic muscle trainer for the treatment of urinary incontinence

ObjectiveTo describe a new device for home treatment of urinary incontinence (UI) by comparing 3 conservative techniques and monitoring compliance and performance.MethodsThirty-two patients with UI were allocated to 1 of 3 intervention groups: pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFME; n = 11) alone; PFME combined with biofeedback (n = 10); or PFME combined with electrical stimulation (n = 11). The outcomes assessed were: changes in quality of life score (QLS), urodynamic and perineometric parameters, episodes of urine loss, subjective assessment of improvement, and actual compliance and performance with treatment.ResultsIncreased pelvic muscle contraction strength (P < 0.05), improvement in QLS (P < 0.02), and fewer episodes of urine leakage were observed in all 3 groups (P < 0.05). Compliance was similar among the groups (P = 0.201).ConclusionAll 3 techniques were effective for home treatment of UI, with significant control of symptoms and improved quality of life. The device effectively monitored compliance and performance of exercises.