Rectal probes

Rectal Probes

Rectal probes are specialized medical accessories used in pelvic floor rehabilitation and pelvic physiotherapy. They serve as a direct interface between the pelvic floor muscles of the anal sphincter complex and electrotherapy devices such as electrostimulators or EMG biofeedback systems. By placing the probe inside the rectum, electrical stimulation or muscle activity readings can be delivered accurately to help strengthen, relax, or retrain the pelvic floor.

At PelviCare, we offer ergonomic, medical-grade rectal probes intended for therapy at home or in clinical environments. These devices are designed to support treatment related to continence, pelvic pain, and core muscle function — for both men and women.

 

When and Why Rectal Probes Are Used in Pelvic Floor Therapy

Rectal probes are recommended when precise activation of the pelvic floor muscles is needed — particularly those surrounding the anus and deeper pelvic structures that are difficult to engage voluntarily.

Common clinical and therapeutic indications include:

• Fecal incontinence

• Gas incontinence

• Chronic constipation related to pelvic floor dyssynergia

• Weakness of the anal sphincter

• Postoperative pelvic rehabilitation

• Post-prostatectomy continence recovery

• Pelvic floor coordination training

• Pelvic pain with muscle tension or hypertonicity

• Recovery after childbirth affecting pelvic stability

Rectal probes are often used when pelvic floor training requires more precision than external exercises alone can provide.

   

Understanding the Pelvic Floor Muscles Involved

The pelvic floor is a multi-layered muscle group supporting urinary, bowel, and sexual functions. The anal sphincter complex and the levator ani muscles work together to:

• Control bowel movements

• Maintain continence

• Support pelvic organs

• Stabilize core posture

• Coordinate with diaphragm and deep abdomen muscles

When these muscles become weak, overactive, injured, or uncoordinated, symptoms can appear such as:

• Leakage of stool or gas

• Straining or difficulty emptying the bowel

• Discomfort, heaviness, or pressure

• Pain during intercourse

• Postural instability

Rectal probes enable targeted, measured therapy to restore healthy muscle function.

   

How Rectal Probes Work

A rectal probe is inserted gently into the rectum, where it sits in contact with the surrounding pelvic floor muscles.

Depending on the therapy device used, it enables two main types of functions:

1. EMS – Electrical Muscle Stimulation

Low-frequency currents are delivered to trigger controlled muscle contractions. This helps train strength when voluntary control is limited.

Strongly recommended for:

• Weak sphincter tone

• Post-prostatectomy rehabilitation

• Chronic pelvic floor weakness

• Postpartum recovery when the anal sphincter is affected

2. EMG Biofeedback

The probe measures muscle activity and displays it on a screen or app. This allows the user to practice contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor correctly — essential in treating dyssynergia or pelvic tension.

Recommended for:

• Learning correct muscle activation

• Overactive pelvic floor relaxation training

• Improving neuromuscular awareness

Some probes support both stimulation and biofeedback, depending on device compatibility.

   

Who Can Benefit from Rectal Probe Training?

Rectal probes are appropriate for both men and women, particularly for:

Men

• Post-prostate surgery continence recovery

• Anal sphincter strengthening

• Pelvic pain associated with muscle tension

• Chronic constipation due to pelvic dyssynergia

Women

• Post-birth sphincter recovery (after tears or instrument-assisted delivery)

• Gas or stool leakage following childbirth

• Pelvic organ support rehabilitation

• Pelvic pain and tension management

All Users

• Chronic hypertonic pelvic floor needing relaxation retraining

• Physiotherapy care plans requiring precise muscle feedback

 

Benefits of Rectal Probes in Pelvic Rehabilitation

• Targeted strengthening of anal and deep pelvic floor muscles

• Improved bowel control and continence

• Enhanced coordination between contraction and relaxation

• Reduction of muscle tension contributing to pelvic pain

• Support for natural bowel function

• Reliable feedback improves technique and progress

• Supports recovery after surgery or childbirth

• Safe and clinically recommended

Rectal probes help achieve progress that is difficult to reach with Kegel exercises alone — especially in situations involving precise sphincter involvement.

   

Types of Rectal Probes Available

1. EMS Rectal Probes

Used with electrostimulators to gently and progressively strengthen muscle tone.

2. EMG Biofeedback Rectal Probes

Provide measurable feedback on muscle activation to improve control and relaxation.

3. Dual-Function Rectal Probes

Compatible with both EMS and EMG systems for comprehensive rehabilitation therapy.

 

 

How to Use a Rectal Probe Safely and Comfortably

To ensure safe and effective home therapy:

1. Apply water-based lubricant before insertion.

2. Insert the probe gently and slowly.

3. Connect to the compatible device (EMS or EMG).

4. Begin with low intensity and increase gradually.

5. Maintain slow, relaxed breathing during sessions.

6. Clean before and after each use with recommended cleanser.

7. Store in a dry, hygienic case.

Do not use if:

• There is active infection

• There are open wounds or acute inflammation

• You have not yet consulted a professional for post-surgical clearance

If you are unsure — a pelvic physiotherapist can guide you.

 

Rectal Probes

In this category you will find:

• Rectal probes for EMS pelvic stimulation

• Rectal probes for EMG biofeedback training

• Universal and brand-specific models

• Replacement cables and hygiene accessories

Pelvic health influences comfort, confidence, and daily independence. Thoughtful, guided therapy with a high-quality rectal probe can restore control, reduce pain, and rebuild trust in your body’s capabilities.