The Use of Perifit as a Therapy for Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Introduction
Pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) are common conditions that impact many individuals, particularly women, due to factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, aging, and hormonal changes. PFDs can manifest in a variety of symptoms including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. Among the numerous treatments available, the Perifit device has emerged as a popular tool for pelvic floor rehabilitation. This article will explore the Perifit device, its mechanism of action, applications in pelvic floor therapy, and clinical protocols for its use.
What is the Perifit Device?
The Perifit device is an innovative, user-friendly, digital pelvic floor exerciser designed to help individuals strengthen and rehabilitate their pelvic floor muscles. It is a biofeedback tool that combines a vaginal sensor with a mobile application to provide real-time feedback on pelvic floor contractions. By guiding the user through targeted exercises, the Perifit device aims to improve pelvic muscle tone, enhance bladder control, and reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse.
The Perifit device is small, discreet, and non-invasive, making it an accessible solution for home-based pelvic floor therapy. The mobile app provides visual and auditory feedback, motivating users to engage in the exercises, track progress, and adjust intensity as needed.
Mechanism of Action
The primary function of the Perifit device is to assist users in performing Kegel exercises, which are considered the cornerstone of pelvic floor rehabilitation. These exercises involve repeated contractions and relaxations of the pelvic floor muscles, which are essential for maintaining bladder control, supporting pelvic organs, and ensuring sexual function.
The Perifit device works by detecting the strength and accuracy of pelvic floor contractions. When the user contracts their pelvic floor muscles, the vaginal sensor detects the pressure change and sends this information to the mobile app. The app then provides real-time feedback, often in the form of a game-like interface, to ensure that the user is performing the exercises correctly and effectively.
Additionally, the Perifit device offers users the ability to track their progress over time, providing both quantitative and qualitative data on improvements in muscle strength and endurance.
Applications in Pelvic Floor Therapy
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence, particularly stress urinary incontinence (SUI), is one of the most common pelvic floor disorders, especially in women. It occurs when the pelvic floor muscles weaken and are no longer able to adequately support the bladder. Studies have shown that pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) is highly effective in reducing the severity of urinary incontinence.
The Perifit device provides an effective means for individuals to engage in PFMT by offering real-time feedback to improve muscle activation. A study by Bø and colleagues (2019) found that pelvic floor training, facilitated by biofeedback devices like Perifit, significantly reduced urinary incontinence symptoms in women. The device can be used daily to strengthen the pelvic muscles, ultimately reducing incontinence episodes and improving bladder control.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, descend from their normal position due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. Strengthening these muscles can prevent or alleviate the symptoms of prolapse.
The Perifit device can be used to target the muscles responsible for supporting the pelvic organs. Strengthening the pelvic floor through guided exercises can reduce the severity of prolapse symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for individuals affected by this condition. A study by Shandall et al. (2016) demonstrated that pelvic floor muscle training significantly improved prolapse symptoms in women, supporting the use of devices like Perifit for therapy.
Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction, including reduced sensation and pain during intercourse, is often linked to weak or uncoordinated pelvic floor muscles. Strengthening these muscles can enhance sexual function by improving blood flow, muscle tone, and overall pelvic health.
Perifit can be used to target the pelvic floor muscles involved in sexual function. By improving muscle strength and coordination, users may experience better sexual satisfaction and reduced pain during intercourse. The real-time feedback provided by the device ensures that users are engaging the correct muscles, which is essential for achieving optimal sexual health.
Postpartum Rehabilitation
Childbirth is one of the most significant causes of pelvic floor dysfunction. The Perifit device is particularly beneficial for postpartum women who are looking to restore pelvic floor strength and functionality after pregnancy and delivery. Research has shown that early pelvic floor rehabilitation can prevent long-term complications such as incontinence and prolapse.
In a study conducted by Laurini et al. (2020), women who used biofeedback devices like Perifit for postpartum pelvic floor rehabilitation showed significant improvements in pelvic floor muscle strength and reduced rates of incontinence. The device's ease of use and accessibility make it an attractive option for new mothers looking to regain control over their pelvic health.
Protocol for Use
The Perifit device is designed to be simple and intuitive, allowing users to perform pelvic floor exercises at home with minimal guidance. The general protocol for using the device involves the following steps:
Insertion: The Perifit device is gently inserted into the vagina, similar to a tampon. The sensor inside the device detects pelvic floor contractions during exercises.
Starting the App: The user opens the Perifit mobile app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. The app connects wirelessly to the Perifit device via Bluetooth and provides visual and auditory feedback.
Exercise Sessions: The app guides the user through various pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegel exercises, by providing real-time feedback on the accuracy and strength of the contractions. Exercises can be tailored to the user’s level of experience and can range from basic to more advanced training.
Frequency: It is generally recommended to use the Perifit device for 10-15 minute sessions, 3-5 times per week, depending on the severity of the condition being treated. The app allows users to track their progress over time, adjusting the frequency and intensity of the exercises as needed.
Monitoring Progress: The app provides data on the user’s pelvic floor strength, including metrics such as contraction intensity and endurance. Over time, users can see measurable improvements, which can help motivate continued use of the device.
Safety and Side Effects
The Perifit device is considered safe for use by most individuals. However, it is essential for users to follow the instructions carefully to avoid discomfort or injury. Those with certain conditions, such as active vaginal infections, pelvic fractures, or severe prolapse, should consult a healthcare provider before using the device.
Conclusion
The Perifit device is an effective and innovative tool for pelvic floor rehabilitation. With its ability to provide real-time feedback on pelvic floor contractions, the device can help individuals strengthen their pelvic muscles, improve bladder control, reduce prolapse symptoms, and enhance sexual function. Given its ease of use, accessibility, and clinical support, Perifit presents a promising non-invasive treatment option for individuals with pelvic floor disorders.
References
Bø, K., Siafarikas, F., & Nygaard, I. E. (2019). Effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training and Biofeedback on Urinary Incontinence. Journal of Urology, 201(3), 749–755.
Shandall, A., van der Vaart, C. H., & Bloem, B. R. (2016). Pelvic Floor Muscle Training for Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Pelvic Medicine, 18(2), 123–130.
Laurini, J. M., Darnell, S., & Brubaker, L. (2020). Postpartum Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Using Biofeedback Devices. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 223(5), 729.e1–729.e6.
