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More about Contrelle
Contrelle is suitable for women who are experiencing stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) where SUI is the main problem.
Contrelle offers an alternative to incontinence pads and surgery. It is a solution for women with stress urinary incontinence, for those who leak during sport, or those who do not wish to have surgery, or still plan to have children Studies show an 87% reduction in leakage and 86% reduction in the number of leakage episodes.
Contrelle is manufactured out of a biocompatible cushion soft foam, providing optimal comfort and support.
No, each Contrelle can only be used once. However, the applicator is reusable.
Contrelle can be used daily for up to 16 hours, or just when exercising.
Published research shows it is safe to use Contrelle for up to 16 hours continuously without increasing risks of infection.
Each pack comes with a new applicator which can be used multiple times.
Contrelle should be used as part of a conservative treatment approach, and we always recommend women should continue to do their pelvic floor exercises whilst using Contrelle – an approach recommended in the latest 2022 NICE guideline. To support professional advice, we recommend women should download the NHS approved Squeezy which can support compliance with pelvic floor exercises.
No, Contrelle must be removed before sexual intercourse.
Yes, Contrelle is available in 3 different sizes. Size 1, 2 and 3. The sizing kit will help you find the most effective and comfortable fit for you. You can find more information on how to find the right size here.
Who should use Contrelle?
Contrelle is suitable for all women over the age of 18 suffering from bladder leaks due to stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and mixed urinary incontinence.
Contrelle is suitable for use by women over the age of 18. There is no upper age limit. However, women do need a level of manual dexterity to put the device on the applicator, and a level of flexibility to insert and remove the device from the vagina. There are instances when Contrelle should not be used. Please check the contraindications before prescribing.
No, Contrelle is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
Women should wait a minimum of 12 weeks after giving birth before using Contrelle.
Do not use Contrelle with a moderate to severe prolapse.
Women should wait a minimum of 6 months after pelvic surgery before using Contrelle.
Yes, but tampons cannot be used at the same time. Contrelle should be changed every 4 to 6 hours during menstruation.
Yes, Contrelle can be used with a coil in place.
Contrelle should not be prescribed if your patient;
- is under the age of 18
- is pregnant, or has given birth in the last 3 months
- is suffering from any infection or irritation in the vagina
- has suffered from TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome)
- has had any pelvic surgery in the last 6 months
- is undergoing any therapy for pelvic malignancy
- has moderate to severe vaginal prolapse
- has current urinary or vaginal infections
- have untreated vaginal dryness which causes irritation without speaking to a healthcare professional
- has problems with manual dexterity which could cause insertion or removal issues.
- were born with male anatomy
What sizes of Contrelle are available?
Contrelle is available in 3 sizes (1, 2, and 3), each size provides a different level of support and fit. You can find more information on how to find the right size here Quick Start Guide | How to use Contrelle | Contrelle
Because every woman is different. All 3 sizes are included in the Sizing Kit pack.
It is important that women choose the one that is most effective for them. The size they need is not related to how much they weigh, how tall they are, how much they leak or how strong their pelvic floor is. It’s about finding the right size, which is a combination of the fit for the size and shape of their vagina, as well as the amount of support needed for the bladder to help stop leaks. There is no benefit in trying a size which is too large as it will not provide better results in stopping leakage. It will also be too tight to easily insert and will make removal difficult.
- It is recommended to start with Size 1.
- Once inserted women should feel comfortable.
- They should experience little or no urine leakage when active or when coughing, and the device should not move.
- If they still experience leakage or feel the device moves with Size 1, this could be due to the positioning rather than size. Before trying a larger size, they should check the device isn’t positioned too high, by gently pulling on both strings to slightly lower the position of Contrelle® Activgard.
- If they still experience leakage they should try size 2.
- If significant leakage still occurs when using Size 2 or the device moves, again they should try adjusting the positioning. If they still experience leakage they should try size 3.
- We recommend walking for at least 30 minutes, cough, jump or run to check for any leakage and movement.
- Contrelle® Activgard should always be easy to insert. A small amount of water-based lubricant should provide added comfort to insert.
- Some will find their size quickly, and others may need to try all three to find their perfect fit.
We recommend you should walk for 30 minutes, cough, jump or run to check for any leakage and movement.
Some women may experience slight initial discomfort until they get used to Contrelle. Some will find their size quickly, and others may need to try all three to find their perfect fit.
Please read the full Instructions for Use leaflet inside your Sizing Kit Pack before use.
How to use Contrelle?
Using Contrelle is just as simple as using a tampon. Before using Contrelle we recommend women read the Instructions for Use (IFU) here. Please check the list of contraindications and precautions before prescribing Contrelle.
We recommend using a water- based lubricant gel at the entrance of the vagina to ease insertion. Some women may find they don’t need this after the first few uses.
Contrelle is working correctly if users:
- can walk for 30 minutes, cough, jump or run without any leakage or with substantially reduced leakage.
- can’t feel it. Most women say they feel it at first, but after a while (2 or 3 uses) they don’t feel it at all. It’s just like the first time you use a tampon.
- They are still able to urinate.
Contrelle is positioned correctly if users:
- Can walk for 30 minutes, cough, jump or run without any leakage or with substantially reduced leakage.
- Can’t feel it. Most women say they feel it at first, but after a while (2 or 3 uses) they don’t feel it at all. It’s just like the first time you use a tampon.
- They are still able to urinate.
Contrelle is inserted into the vagina to support the urethra and bladder neck to prevent or reduce the loss of urine.
There is no need to remove Contrelle during the day, even when going to the toilet.
To remove the Contrelle Activgard device, we recommend using a water-based lubrication gel to ease removal. Some women find they don’t need this after the first few uses. The gel should be applied inside the vagina. Women should relax and hold both strings evenly together (either side of the knot), as close as possible to the body, then gently and slowly ease the device out of the vagina. By pulling both strings gently together with equal pressure the wings are pulled together for ease of removal. Using Contrelle® Activgard may need some practice. It is important for women to always relax – they should not become stressed or tense as this will tighten their muscles and make removal difficult. They should take their time, relax and take a break if needed. Some women find removing Contrelle® Activgard easier using a squatting or lying position, or whilst sitting on the toilet.
Each Contrelle can be used for up to 16 hours. Each Contrelle can only be used once. Contrelle should be changed every 4 to 6 hours during menstruation. It is advisable for women to change Contrelle when convenient after swimming.
Most women say they feel it at first, but after a while (2 or 3 uses) they don’t notice it at all.
If inserted correctly, Contrelle works instantly to reduce or stop bladder leakage.
Dispose of Contrelle with normal household waste.
Yes, Contrelle can be used during swimming, but we recommend changing Contrelle when convenient afterwards.
When the device is properly saturated it will not absorb moisture from the vagina and is easier to put on the applicator.
We instruct users to soak Contrelle Activgard thoroughly under running cold water holding in the palm of their hand, whilst at the same time slowly squeezing the device 10 times or more until the device is fully saturated. This should take at least 30 seconds. The foam device will expand in size by about a third in all dimensions and be smooth and even in appearance. If the device appears misshapen women should continue to run under water and squeeze until it is even and smooth. The foam cannot be over saturated.
We instruct users to soak Contrelle Activgard thoroughly under running cold water holding in the palm of their hand, whilst at the same time slowly squeezing the device 10 times or more until the device is fully saturated. This should take at least 30 seconds. The foam device will expand in size by about a third in all dimensions and be smooth and even in appearance. If the device appears misshapen women should continue to run under water and squeeze until it is even and smooth. The foam cannot be over saturated.
Women should place the string loop around the BOTTOM of the applicator (close to the grooves) with the knot in the middle of the hollow. ALWAYS PLACE THE STRING ON THE BOTTOM OF THE APPLICATOR FIRST. DO NOT PUT THE FOAM DEVICE ON THE TOP OF THE APPLICATOR FIRST as this will apply too much stress to the device and potentially cause it to tear.
Once the string is in place, they should gently slide the Contrelle®Activgard foam device onto the top of the applicator, using their finger and thumb, so the central depression fits onto the top of the applicator. They should NOT FORCE the foam Activgard device onto the applicator – it should easily slide or nudge onto the top of the applicator without resistance.
Once the string is in place, they should gently slide the Contrelle®Activgard foam device onto the top of the applicator, using their finger and thumb, so the central depression fits onto the top of the applicator. They should NOT FORCE the foam Activgard device onto the applicator – it should easily slide or nudge onto the top of the applicator without resistance.
The device is designed to sit in the middle of the vagina to support the bladder. For most women Contrelle Activgard should therefore not be pushed up as far as a tampon, as this may cause difficulties with removal and will make the product ineffective.
We recommend for first users to start inserting the device to the first groove of the applicator. However, for maximum benefit, women may need the device to be slightly lower or higher depending on their anatomy. If higher, they should never insert to the top of the vaginal canal where the cervix sits.
Whilst inserting the device, they should feel no pain or resistance. Never force the device, and insert slowly and gradually. Using a small amount of water-based lubricant at the vaginal opening can help with insertion.
Finding the right position may require adjustments whilst they are getting used to the product. It is important to remember every woman is different so the optimal depth of insertion will vary, and they will find which position works for them.
We recommend for first users to start inserting the device to the first groove of the applicator. However, for maximum benefit, women may need the device to be slightly lower or higher depending on their anatomy. If higher, they should never insert to the top of the vaginal canal where the cervix sits.
Whilst inserting the device, they should feel no pain or resistance. Never force the device, and insert slowly and gradually. Using a small amount of water-based lubricant at the vaginal opening can help with insertion.
Finding the right position may require adjustments whilst they are getting used to the product. It is important to remember every woman is different so the optimal depth of insertion will vary, and they will find which position works for them.
Safety Information
Contrelle has been rigorously tested and is safe and comfortable to use. It is designed not to absorb the natural moisture of the vaginal mucous membrane which can cause dryness, imbalance or infections.
Clinical trials have shown that Contrelle produces no signs of change in pH values or natural bacteria. Contrelle presents no increased risk of vaginal or urinary infection, or irritation of mucous membranes.
There have been no reported issues of TSS with the use of Contrelle. When Contrelle has been fully saturated with water before use, it absorbs no moisture from the vagina.
Each Contrelle can be used for up to 16 hours a day and it is safe and effective to use Contrelle every day.
Use their fingers to gently reach up and remove the device or make an appointment with their doctor or a healthcare professional who can help remove it.
It is important for users to always relax. They should not become stressed or tense as this will tighten their muscles and make removal difficult. They need to take their time, relax and take a break if needed. Some women find removing Contrelle® Activgard easier using a squatting or lying position. or whilst sitting on the toilet.
This is only necessary if they are leaking constantly, have had any form of bladder surgery or suffer from a previously diagnosed condition affecting the bladder. If they experience any pain, irritation or vaginal discharge during use then they should remove Contrelle immediately. Contrelle should not be used if they have had vaginal mesh inserted during surgery including a bladder sling.
Contrelle has been thoroughly researched and tested.
Prescription
The Contrelle Sizing Kit and 30-pack are NHS approved and can now be prescribed on FP10 by general practitioners and all qualified healthcare professional prescribers.
No, the 5-pack is not approved for prescription. However, the Sizing Kit and 30-pack can both be prescribed on FP10 by general practitioners and all qualified healthcare professional prescribers.
Yes, please find these detailed in the table below;
| Pack | Product Code | Quantity | PIP Code | SNOMED Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sizing Kit | V01SP | 3 | 4232427 | 41407911000001100 |
| 30 pack size 1 | V010001P30 | 30 | 4232377 | 41407311000001100 |
| 30 pack size 2 | V010002P30 | 30 | 4232401 | 41407511000001100 |
| 30 pack size 3 | V010003P30 | 30 | 4232385 | 41407711000001100 |
Yes, O9D3S - VIVECA BIOMED LTD
Yes, the use of intravaginal devices, such as Contrelle, is included in the latest NICE guidelines as part of a conservative approach to the treatment of stress urinary incontinence, after pelvic floor training. NICE recognises the use of such devices could prevent more costly, invasive options.
Contrelle is made in the UK.
Yes, it can be used independently at home, making it convenient whilst saving professional time.
Contrelle can be used independently whilst women are working on their pelvic floor strength, or whilst women are waiting to see a physiotherapist or continence advisor. It offers much needed relief to those who don’t find success with pelvic floor exercises and can be a preferred alternative for women who may have otherwise progressed to costly surgical interventions or injections.
The Sizing Kit needs to be prescribed or purchased by the patient, to start their Contrelle journey. This contains all three sizes; small, medium and large. The kit enables women to establish the most effective and comfortable fit for them. Once women know their preferred size, 30-packs are available on prescription. For more information on how to use the sizing kit, please click here.
Some women use Contrelle everyday, whilst other women only require extra support during certain activities, such as exercise. Each device can only be used once, so it’s up to the patient to determine how many devices she’ll need over a certain period.
Pharmacy
Contrelle can be bought direct. Please email
pharmacy@Contrelle.com
with any queries or to place an order. Alternatively you can call
our specialists on 0330 229 2161. Contrelle is also available to
order via Alliance, Lexon, NWOS and Quantum.
Sizing Kits, 5-packs and 30-packs are available for retail.
Sizing Kits, RRP £8.99
5-packs are available in all three sizes, RRP £15.99
30-packs are available in all three sizes, RRP £78.99
Sizing Kits, RRP £8.99
5-packs are available in all three sizes, RRP £15.99
30-packs are available in all three sizes, RRP £78.99
It’s important for women to use The Sizing Kit, to start their
Contrelle journey. This contains all three sizes; small, medium and
large. The kit enables women to establish the most effective and
comfortable fit for them. Once women know their preferred size,
5-packs and 30-packs are available for retail. For more information
on how to use the sizing kit, please click
here.
Yes, the Sizing Kit and 30-pack are NHS approved and can now be
prescribed on FP10 by general practitioners and all qualified
healthcare professional prescribers.
No, the 5-pack is not approved for prescription. However, the Sizing
Kit and 30-pack can both be prescribed on FP10 by general
practitioners and all qualified healthcare professional prescribers.
Yes, please find these detailed in the table below;
| Pack | Product Code | Quantity | PIP Code | SNOMED Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sizing Kit | V01SP | 3 | 4232427 | 41407911000001100 |
| 5 pack size 1 | V010001P5 | 5 | 4232419 | Not applicable |
| 5 pack size 2 | V010002P5 | 5 | 4232369 | Not applicable |
| 5 pack size 3 | V010003P5 | 5 | 4232393 | Not applicable |
| 30 pack size 1 | V010001P30 | 30 | 4232377 | 41407311000001100 |
| 30 pack size 2 | V010002P30 | 30 | 4232401 | 41407511000001100 |
| 30 pack size 3 | V010003P30 | 30 | 4232385 | 41407711000001100 |
Pricing & Availability
A Sizing kit. (One of each size, plus an applicator) = £8.99
A pack of 5 Contrelle = £15.99
A pack of 30 Contrelle = £78.99
Pharmacies can buy Contrelle direct. Please email
pharmacy@Contrelle.com
with any queries or to place an order. Alternatively you can call
our specialists on 0330 229 2161.
Contrelle is also available to order via Alliance, Lexon, NWOS and
Quantum.
Delivery, Shipping & Returns
We aim to despatch all orders within 3 working days. For any further delivery questions please call 0330 229 2160
Trouble shooting
If the device is slipping, your patient can;
- Use a water-based lubricant on at the vaginal opening rather than on the product. Make sure women only use water-based lubricants.
- Try a larger or alternative size.
- Try inserting the product slightly higher.
- If using vaginal oestrogen cream, gel or suppository, wait a few hours prior to inserting the device.
If they are struggling with comfort, your patient can;
- Try sitting on the toilet and inhaling to relax the pelvic floor muscles during insertion.
- Use a water-based lubricant.
- Ensure they have started with the smallest size.
If the device is not working, your patient can;
- Draw the device slightly lower so that it sits only just above the pelvic floor muscles and is not pushed in as far as a tampon.
- Try inserting the device slightly deeper.
- Try a larger or alternative size.
