Vaginal and Anal Electrode Comparison Chart

This useful chart, created by our physiotherapist Fiona, compares the insertable electrodes available on Pelvic Floor Exercise to help you decide which is best for you / your patient.

The main feature to look for is the width of an electrode.
You need the electrode to fit well whilst giving good contact with both sides of the pelvic floor (if using a vaginal electrode) and to fit within the anal canal when using an anal electrode.

If too narrow for your vaginal width you will lose contact, the circuit won't be complete and your machine will indicate that the current is not flowing. This is indicated by the machine not progressing up past 5-6mA when you try to turn it up and is often misinterpreted as the machine being faulty when it isn't - it is actually telling you something is wrong with the circuit.
If this occurs watch our video to learn how to check that your machine, electrode and lead are working properly. You can also download the instructions.

If too wide the electrode may be uncomfortable to insert.

As a general rule of thumb, women who have given birth vaginally will usually start with a wider electrode like the Periform.

You can do a quick self test by inserting two clean fingers into your vagina, contract you pelvic floor and if you can feel your pelvic floor muscles squeezing your fingers then you will most likely be able to use a narrower electrode like the PFLEX PR-18A or the PFLEX 20mm . If you can't, then the Periform may be a better choice.

If you can't feel any movement then you should see a pelvic floor physiotherapist or your doctor for further guidance before starting with a device.

Another good test is if you use tampons - if you can't hold one in or it tends to slide sideways you may need a larger width electrode.

If you can easily hold a tampon in, and you can feel a squeeze around your finger/s when inserted, then you should be able to use a smaller width electrode.
BUT please check with your pelvic floor physiotherapist first because you may not need electrical stimulation treatment for muscle strengthening if this is the case.

There are other conditions that you may use a vaginal electrode for such as bladder urgency or pelvic pain. Please make sure you have been properly assessed before starting electrical stimulation treatment. Both of these conditions can also very easily be treated using external adhesive (stick on) electrodes.

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The material presented in this information sheet is intended as an information source only. The information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters presented herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information. The information should not be considered complete and should not be used in place of the advice of a health care provider. Pelvic Floor Exercise does not accept liability to any person for the information or advice provided in this sheet, or for loss or damages incurred as a result of reliance upon the material contained herein.

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