EPI-NO How To Use (for childbirth)

[@StupidApples]

Epi-no was fantastic! I got to 9.5cm at the end and did not tear a bit with my first child. It even gave me confidence and felt more relaxed before giving birth as I felt I had some control over the whole experience

[@vaginacoach]

yay!

[@globalyan]

Started today in week 35+1. It was really cool to see the arrow go up when squishing my pelvic muscle! I managed to do 4.5cm but I’ll wait with the stretching till week 37 as you said :)

[@villkyway938]

Did it help?

[@reemash6299]

I'm 34 week pregnant and I just bought the epi no i user for pelvic floor training I was wondering is it supposed to hurt and is a burning sensation after using it normal ?

[@Redheadrebel44]

Im disapointed this isnt available in the US. Im pregnant with my first and really scared of tearing i was researching ways to prepare and stumbled upon this. It looks like a great product.

[@vaginacoach]

I couldn't agree more Angel... Unfortunately the FDA is standing in the way. You can learn other techniques to help in my Prepare To Push e-course www.pelviennewellness.com/pages/prepare-to-push Hope you find that helpful!

[@tinygreenpea]

In case anyone is looking at this more recently like I am, it's now available on amazon in the US. :)

[@lovexx5633]

@@tinygreenpea thank god

[@suuuuu5080]

Do I need to inhale the balloon without inflating it every 10 seconds for the first 10 minutes? And for the second stage, do I need to inhale half of the balloon, then start pumping it and hold it that way for only 10 minutes? I would be very happy if you could answer. 😊

[@kittytiffy7215]

When I try to contract my pelvic floor muscles, I actually push the balloon out rather than draw it upwards. I don't have the epi-no plus version to be able to check the dial. Wondering if it might mean I don't have the balloon inserted enough.

[@jessicalagola6119]

Wow excellent and very informative video! Thanks for taking the time to post!

[@twokgofpotatoes]

I am using it for a week now, so far cannot go over 7 cm...and it is really hard to hold of inside i am using both hands for it not to slip out. Hope i will reach 8 cm comfortably, still have 2 weeks as per my doc🤞 34+5days, started as per doc reccomendations.

[@vaginacoach]

You don't have to reach 10cm. I have a video on holding it in.

[@twokgofpotatoes]

Thanks. I watched your video of how to hold:) I also realised that I am putting it to deep, I have like 25-30% of balloon out only, now can do 7,5-8 cm. Feel like spent too much time stretching too deep, I hope still have time to stretch correctly:)

[@melaniesojan1222]

Great video! When you say “contract” and “relax” the pelvic floor, does that apply to the same contraction and relaxation of muscles during kegel exercises?

[@vaginacoach]

correct :-)

[@homelifestyle108]

can i put condon on before using it for the hygine??

[@vaginacoach]

If you have purchased it new you don't need a condom.

[@homelifestyle108]

@@vaginacoach thanks

[@kaceylea2017]

Hello, I see this video is pretty old but hoping I’ll get a response still! 🤞 I’m pregnant with my first and concerned I won’t carry to 40 weeks and won’t have enough time to do the stretching part. Is there any particular reason I can’t start now? I’m 24 weeks. Hope to hear from you!

[@vaginacoach]

you can start now with the strength training and then between 35-37 weeks you can start the stretching. It is not advised to start stretching prior.

[@drzenkobilas7770]

@@vaginacoach Start from 26 weeks so babies born at 28 weeks also benefit is the most recent advise from Meta analysis trial write up.

[@d33shu]

Hi can i start it early Like 28 weeks ?

[@vaginacoach]

You can start the strengthening part anytime and the stretching at 35-37 weeks.

[@mariaclarafrank4767]

Amazing video!! Thank you so much

[@jenxnspire]

This may be TMI...but wondering if you tore after using this? Someone I know from he gym said she used this and did not tear. Wondering if everyone who uses this has a 100% tearfree birth? or whatever the percentage is for the outcome?

[@vaginacoach]

I used it with both of my pregnancies and had no tearing. If you use an EPI-NO there is no guarantee that you will not tear - there are so many factors that go in to a birth. The product can help reduce the likelihood and the severity. It has been shown to reduce push time as well. I love the product and highly recommend.

[@cristianasoto8284]

I used it with my first pregnancy and did not tear. I’m currently 22 weeks pregnant with our second child and I plan on using the Epi-No again since I had so much success with it with the first time. I highly recommend it!

[@mihaelafarkas9750]

I used it (got to 8) and didn't tear. Only had some minor tear that the dr said doesn't need stitches. Didn't feel the tear though, so it was veeery superficial /small. When I first asked my dr, she didn't know about it or if it would be useful. She let me use it though. After the birth, the dr said "Your epi-no worked!" :)

[@kikiiichan83]

Hi Kim again. I was just wondering, how about when expelling the balloon hurts? It just seems I can't go past 5.5 cm

[@kikiiichan83]

Also, I feel like peeing when expelling it. I've been using it for a week.

[@vaginacoach]

remember it is not about the number but rather your ability to learn to yield to the stretch and pressure...without pain. Take some extra time once you reach your edge to imagine blossoming...and you can also let a bit of air out and then try again. Always listen to your body. You may also wish to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist for assistan

[@redanvoo]

But this is a video for epi no plus, not epi no

[@TheFlowMind]

Will this also work for people with vulvodynia? It looks similar to another device that inflates with water “Ellen pelvic trainer”. I have a contracted pelvic floor (very sensitive in the elevator ani) and very painful intercourses.

[@vaginacoach]

I have had clients with vulvodynia use it but I of course can’t say for sure. Are you working with a pelvic floor physical therapist?

[@JessJohan28]

Hi, Its my 3rd day using it and I’ve been at about 4.5 to 5cm. I find that When the balloon is still inside I can pump till about 22 but after 10mins as I pull it out, the balloon deflates slightly and meter goes down to about 16. Is this normal? Am I doing something wrong?

[@BradAndLex]

Good question!! I am prepping at 37 weeks and have the same question

[@DillyDallyDeeleeDallee]

What’s the best position to sit or lay in to keep the epi-no from slipping out?

[@vaginacoach]

semi reclined is usually easiest. I have another video on how to prevent it from slipping out.

[@DillyDallyDeeleeDallee]

@@vaginacoach thank you! I was trying the sides but it was an effort to keep it in almost feels like I am forcing it to stay in.

[@melschoeny]

Very clear and well made video

[@mmh4147]

Hi! I’m 36+4 right now. I started last Thursday and at 5,5 CM now without any pain or discomfort. I’ve been practicing 10 minutes a day. Am I going to quick? Can I aim for 10 CM in the coming weeks? Then for the muscles training. When I try to ‘squeeze’ the needle up there is only a tiny bit of movement on the meter. What can I do to properly train that better? Thank you!!

[@vaginacoach]

You don't need to reach 10 cm in order to obtain benefit. Learning to relax and yield in the presence of discomfort is the main goal regardless of the number on the gauage.

[@ibsn87]

Wife says thanks for the informative video and sharing. 👍🏻

[@kikiiichan83]

Hi Kim, my physiotherapist believes that once you start using it for stretching, you should stop doing any strengthening exercises. What's your opinion on that?

[@vaginacoach]

the focus near the end is definitely on the stretching and letting go and learning to yield. I don't recommend completely stopping the strengthening but you could switch to just doing the core breath with a voluntary contraction and no EPI-NO.

[@kikiiichan83]

Thanks. I actually started noticing a bit of leaking when I sneeze or pass air, so I was thinking as you say to keep on doing the contractions.

[@vaginacoach]

you can purchase online at www.pelviennewellness.com

[@biancaquiles9816]

Thank you very much for the video.

[@BuildYourFreedom]

Could you tell us how to clean or sterilize the EPI NO, if I kept it for a while without using it?

[@vaginacoach]

Hi Ana, to clean the EPI-NO simply wash it with soapy water and let air dry. If you would like a further level of cleaning you can also use rubbing alcohol.

[@totoro4885]

شكراًا

[@PriyaAmar848]

How to buy epi no trainer if I’m in USA or Canada ?

[@vaginacoach]

it is unfortunately not available in North America. If you know someone in Europe or Australia who can purchase one for you that is your only option right now.

[@ramyasubramanian3492]

Hi Kim, what is the maximum time we can use this? Am wondering if we are allowed to use it 10 min morning and evening ( twice a day ) and if it will be useful getting to the goal sooner. Please advise. Thank you.

[@vaginacoach]

Ramya Subramanian if you are starting your training later than 37 weeks then yes you can do twice a day but if you are starting at 37 weeks there is no need to do twice a day.

[@ramyasubramanian3492]

Kim Vopni - Thank you 🙏

[@perthchickp]

Hi Kim, I bought the Epi-No for my first pregnancy but never got around to using it. I had 2nd degree tearing (which could have been for many reasons). Would you recommend using it for my second time around? Or like my midwife says, "the muscles have memory so you will be fine second time around no need to use it"

[@vaginacoach]

Yes absolutely but if it was more than 5 years ago let me know. It is approved for use for 5 years by Health Canada.

[@perthchickp]

@@vaginacoach Hi Kim, my first birth was 2 years ago

[@vaginacoach]

@@perthchickp you are good then :-)

[@yaz7652]

EPI-NO should ONLY be used with a water-based lubricant such as KY Jelly, or Ansell Water Based Lubricant. Non water-based lubricants must NOT be used. Essential Oils, Fragrant Oils, Almond Oil and petroleum based lubricants will damage the balloon over time.

[@empressah888]

Thanks for the kong toy heads up, I'll now be sure to keep it well away from my pup lol Thank you for this excellent tutorial. I'm about to buy one since finding out about them, as I'm a first time mum to be and feel it will be very beneficial for my body, birthing fears and helping the actual birth go as well as can be. Oh and for afters:)

[@evelioruiz2075]

Thank you very much!

[@ramirafi821]

can I start at 20 weeks ??? thank you

[@vaginacoach]

Maria Raffaella Figliuzzi not for the stretching but you can for the strength training

[@gracehc9356]

thank you for this video u found it very helpful. I was hoping you might be able to answer my question. I am 30 weeks pregnant (2nd pregnancy). I have a lot of scar tissue from my first delivery and my perineal is very tough like rubber (extremely painful to stretch). would you suggest I start stretching now due to the tough scar tissue I have? hope to hear back!

[@vaginacoach]

+grace choi The EPI-NO can be great at mobilizing scar tissue. Start now and do the biofeedback training and then at 37 weeks add in the stretching and an option is to do it twice a day. You can also work on the posterior pelvic floor release (video on this page as well) with the ball...helps release tension that can come with scar tissue.

[@vanpak]

I want to buy that Epi-no, I live in Calgary, Canada!

[@heyjupiter]

The problem is that when I lubricate and put it in me half way… it automatically comes up in seconds… lubricate makes it worse with me :(

[@vaginacoach]

Watch my other video on how to hold the EPI-NO in

[@anaccount9439]

Thanks for the vid, great tool and great info!

[@Mich2Paris7]

the device will not stay in, I'm 39 weeks now and have only managed to get to 5cm then it just slides out and will not stay in, ive even got my husband helping but its too tight to stay in, what do I do?

[@vaginacoach]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/naCQnmtvpayairM

[@appcsyt]

Hi, Kim! Do you know where I can buy Epi-no in the US?

[@vaginacoach]

Hi Ana Paula - Unfortunately the EPI-NO is not approved by the FDA and as such they are not sold in the US and no distributor is able to ship to the US. So unfortunate but is beyond our control. Kind regards, Kim

[@calico27]

This is such a bummer! I looked everywhere to find it and finally found your response :( Yet another way this country is backwards in women's healthcare!!

[@iamkate333]

Get a inflatable anal plug same concept

[@sunnylion2660]

Hi there! Thank-you for this video! I am 36 weeks 4 days and I started stretching with my epi-no yesterday. How much of an increase should I see daily? My vagina feels incredible tight and my score was 4cm yesterday and 4cm again today. Is this normal?

[@vaginacoach]

There is no optimal number. Pay attention instead to how you feel and less attention to the number on the gauge. It is more about learning to yield against discomfort than it is about reaching a number. It is common to see the same number for a few days in a row and sometimes even regress - it is all dependent on how much tension you have in your pelvic floor.

[@sunnylion2660]

Thank-you! I will try that!

[@Moonemy]

At what week this training should start? Im in 19 weeks now. Thank you!

[@Maryam7580]

They say 37 weeks

[@Moonemy]

Maryam Alhaqq thank you!

[@Maryam7580]

Moonemy you’re welcome! 🌸

[@LindaBTP]

Hello :-) When you use the Epi-No to prepare for stretching, will you then ever get normal down there, when the birth is over, or will you just stay "stretched" for ever? :-P

[@vaginacoach]

+LindaBTP Think of it like yoga...when you go to a yoga class over a period of time and stretch your muscles, you have release tension and improved their flexibility but your body still has tone and form correct? The other think to keep in mind is that the EPI-NO is not just about stretching the perineum. It is about you connecting with your pelvic floor and learning to contract them but also so relax them and yield against discomfort so you are somewhat familiar with sensations of pressure and discomfort when you are in labour.

[@precious2017]

Can this help with vaginismus?

[@vaginacoach]

fangs it is designed as a birth prep tool. I would recommend working with a pelvic health physical therapist and they can help you find a product to help (if needed)

[@Mich2Paris7]

i'm 34 weeks, i'm worried baby wll come at 36weeks can i start using it now?

[@vaginacoach]

you can use it for the strengthening now and then start the stretching at 37 weeks as per the manufacturer's guidelines. Free free to email me if you would like to chat further.

[@Mich2Paris7]

@@vaginacoach what if my baby is early? 😣 I have a friend who had both her babies naturally no complications at 36 weeks, baby is also measuring ahead, thanks for advice tho

[@GraceWilliams87]

Is it still beneficial to use for just stretching if you don't expel the balloon inflated? I have done it a couple of times and I cannot stand the feeling. I know a baby will be much worse but still can't bring myself to do it again. Also if the balloon doesn't fall out can this mean it's in too far and is this bad? Thanks.

[@vaginacoach]

Grace Williams yes...the benefit lies in learning to find ease in the presence of stretch and pressure.

[@vaginacoach]

Grace Williams ideally you keep the widest part of the balloon at the opening...if it is higher, it is not as wide and may not expel as easily

[@GraceWilliams87]

@@vaginacoach thank you for your fast reply. I think I was putting it in too far and that's why it was so uncomfortable to expel. I have tried with it only half in and it's still uncomfy when coming out but not nearly as bad! Thanks a bunch and thanks for the great vids.

[@vaginacoach]

Grace Williams you are welcome!

[@norenbhulji6595]

Hi - if I am near the end of 37 weeks. Can I go straight to the stretching or do I need to start with the basic pelvic floor training? Thanks

[@norenbhulji6595]

I only just found out about this product

[@vaginacoach]

You will do both :-)

[@norenbhulji6595]

Kim Vopni - The Vagina Coach thanks so much! So just do the first 10 mins of pelvic training then the second 10 mins of stretching? Both at the same time? Thanks x

[@vaginacoach]

@@norenbhulji6595 10 minutes of each

[@BrendaRomaniello]

I'm 36 weeks pregnant, have my epino and I'll start the training. Question: would the use of the birth training at 37 weeks make you go into labour earlier? Can it help you go into labour before due date naturally?

[@vaginacoach]

No, the EPI-NO is not involved in bringing on labour. All the best in your training and birth. 🙂

[@BrendaRomaniello]

Thank you for your quick reply! First session of pelvic floor exercises done! Looking forward to improving in the next couple of weeks

[@szfrj]

❤

[@mfl8559]

you talked too much.. cant really get to the point easily... it will be great if you can use a fake virgina to show how to use this.