Review:

ISTIM V2

In This Article

By

Willa Trenton, Gynecologist

Updated

August 4, 2023

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Image: Istim.com

Product overview

When it comes to pelvic floor rehabilitation, there's a wide and varied range of products available on the market. After thorough analysis, iStim V2 has emerged as an effective solution for those grappling with incontinence issues.

The iStim V2, specifically designed to combat incontinence, employs electrostimulation to strengthen the pelvic muscles. With its 5 customizable EMS programs and adjustable intensity, it provides a nuanced approach tailored to each user.

How Does It Work?

The iStim V2 was designed to help those suffering from incontinence perform Kegel exercises automatically. By utilizing low-frequency currents, the device increases blood flow to the muscles, thus reducing involuntary bladder contractions. These currents also aid in bolstering the muscles' resistance to fatigue.

In terms of incontinence, the iStim V2 is especially effective. Whether you're experiencing stress incontinence, with leaks during sneezing or coughing, or urge incontinence, with sudden leaks, this device is for you.

The ease of use for the iStim V2 is also noteworthy. It comes with an iStim probe equipped with an indicator rod, 4 AA batteries, an instruction manual, and a cable. Made in Taiwan, it requires only two AA batteries to operate, with two additional batteries provided for extended use.

The Programs

With 5 preset EMS programs, the iStim V2 offers a variety of options to meet your specific needs. You can adjust the intensity from 0 to 99 based on your comfort, and the key-lock feature ensures safe usage.

Each program is designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and assist with postpartum recovery. Once the muscles are bolstered through electrostimulation, they are better equipped to resist urinary leaks caused by external pressures on the bladder.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Overall, customer feedback is very positive regarding the iStim V2:

"I've recently started using the iStim V2 and I have high hopes. I'm a fitness model and sometimes experience slight leaks during my workouts. I'm currently using program 3 with stimulation between 85 and 90 and it seems to be working well for me. I'll update in a few weeks."
"I purchased this product to strengthen my pelvic floor. After just a week of use, stress incontinence stopped. After a few weeks of usage, I can also perform Kegels on my own much better than before. I recommend it to anyone needing to fortify their pelvic floor."

Pros & Cons

PROS

  • Designed to reduce symptoms of incontinence.
  • Uses low-frequency vibrations to increase blood flow.
  • Remote offers different intensity levels.

CONS

  • It’s an “active” device, so it may feel more invasive than Kegel balls or biofeedback devices and potentially trigger unpleasant sensations or discomfort at use.
  • The design is not the greatest asset - the device has a “medical” look.
  • Runs with AA batteries and has wires.
  • Cannot be used in water.
  • Nickel probe is not suitable for those with a nickel allergy.
  • No fun or engaging features, no information on your progress.

Compared to other products:

Ratings
Warranty
Return
Price
Technology
Features
ISTIM V2
4.1/5 on Amazon
No warranty
30-day return
136$
Electrodes (used for electrostimulation, not detection)
Vaginal probe and handheld device where you select which program to use.
Perifit
4.6/5 on Amazon
2-year warranty
100-day return
149$
Dual pressure sensor (Identifies and differentiates good and bad contractions. This is vital as incorrect contractions can be harmful to health).
Vaginal probe and app including 7 programs, 12 games, Kegel coach, goals, reminders, progress tracking, community.
ISTIM V2
4.1/5 on Amazon
No warranty
30-day return
136$
Electrodes (used for electrostimulation, not detection)
Vaginal probe and handheld device where you select which program to use.
Elvie Trainer
3.8/5 on Amazon
2-year warranty
30-day return
199$
Force and motion sensors
Vaginal probe and smartphone app including 6 exercises, 4 levels, reminders, goals-setting and progress tracking.
Ami - Je Joue
3.9/5 on Amazon
1-year warranty
No return possible
50$
/
3 kegel weights. Manual, no batteries or apps. Tones PC muscle.
kGoal Classic
3.9/5 on Amazon
2-year warranty
90-day return
150$
Pressure sensor with tactile component
Medical-grade device with app. Squeeze Pillow biofeedback. Game-based workouts.
Bodyotics Deluxe
4.4/5 on Amazon
Lifetime
30-day return
50$
/
6 weighted balls and an e-book describing exercises.
No items found.
Emy - Fizimed
4.2/5 on Amazon
5-year warranty
14-day return
199$
Pressure sensor
Pelvic floor rehab with app. Real-time feedback. Strengthening exercises and games
Ratings
Warranty
Return
Price
Technology
Features
ISTIM V2
4.1/5 on Amazon
No warranty
30-day return
136$
Electrodes (used for electrostimulation, not detection)
Vaginal probe and handheld device where you select which program to use.
ISTIM V2
4.1/5 on Amazon
No warranty
30-day return
136$
Electrodes (used for electrostimulation, not detection)
Vaginal probe and handheld device where you select which program to use.
Elvie Trainer
3.8/5 on Amazon
2-year warranty
30-day return
199$
Force and motion sensors
Vaginal probe and smartphone app including 6 exercises, 4 levels, reminders, goals-setting and progress tracking.
Ami - Je Joue
3.9/5 on Amazon
1-year warranty
No return possible
50$
/
3 kegel weights. Manual, no batteries or apps. Tones PC muscle.
kGoal Classic
3.9/5 on Amazon
2-year warranty
90-day return
150$
Pressure sensor with tactile component
Medical-grade device with app. Squeeze Pillow biofeedback. Game-based workouts.
Bodyotics Deluxe
4.4/5 on Amazon
Lifetime
30-day return
50$
/
6 weighted balls and an e-book describing exercises.
No items found.
Emy - Fizimed
4.2/5 on Amazon
5-year warranty
14-day return
199$
Pressure sensor
Pelvic floor rehab with app. Real-time feedback. Strengthening exercises and games

Conclusion

In conclusion, the iStim V2 stands out as a cutting-edge device in the realm of pelvic floor rehabilitation. Its use of electrostimulation offers a promising and targeted approach to tackling incontinence, catering to the diverse needs of users with its array of customizable programs. While the overwhelmingly positive customer feedback attests to its efficacy, it's essential to approach electrostimulation with informed caution. Compared to traditional Kegel exercises or biofeedback methods, electrostimulation delves deeper into muscle stimulation and requires a higher level of care and understanding. As with all interventions, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that it's the right fit for an individual's specific needs and conditions.