EPI-NO
Frequently Asked Questions
The Following is a selection of frequently asked questions. If you cannot find the answer that you are looking for, please contact our midwife at Ask A Midwife. We cannot provide advice relating to any specific medical condition, only guidance in training with EPI-NO. If you are unsure whether EPI-NO is suitable for you, consult a health professional familiar with your medical history.
How long is the shipping time?
EPI-NO is couriered daily to Hong Kong by our Sydney based forwarder via DHL or EMS-Hong Kong Speedpost
Delivery is normally 2 to 4 working days depending upon local holidays. Customers receive a Tracking Email from DHL/EMS. Deliveries require a signature. If you have not received your shipment within 7 WORKING DAYS it may be that the address is incomplete. Please check that your address is accurate and you order in a name that corresponds to your ID. Notify us immediately if you have made an error in your Shipping Address, telephone number or email address. Notify us ASAP if you have not received your order after 7 WORKING DAYS to avoid a return.
What is your Return Policy?
An unopened EPI-NO can be returned only if the shrink wrap is intact.
Do you know that EPI-NO is also a Pelvic Floor Muscle trainer used following delivery to strengthen the pelvic floor which is weakened by the hormones of pregnancy and can lead to bladder control problems. Having a Caesarean Section does not protect you from pelvic floor muscle weakness and incontinence. If the reason for returning your EPI-NO is a planned Caesarean Section we recommend discussing your pelvic floor remediation with your doctor. In Germany, women use EPI-NO from early pregnancy to strengthen their pelvic floor muscles and following the birth to reduce the risk of incontinence.
Instructions for returning EPI-NO.
- ALWAYS accept the delivery by DHL/Hong Kong Speedpost.
- Do not break the shrink wrap seal on the product.
- Advise us that you wish to return your EPI-NO
- We have an arrangement with our accountant in Central where you can drop off the EPI-NO. We will notify the office to expect a return, and we will then provide you with the address. We will be advised of the return.
- Refunds are processed by us back to your method of payment and not at this office.
NOTE: Any refunds are processed at the end of each month.
Is EPI-NO suitable only for women having their first baby?
Although German and Australian clinical studies were of first time mothers, EPI-NO is used by many women for a subsequent birth. It is estimated that 30-40% of EPI-NO use is by second and third time mothers. EPI-NO is also used by VBACs (Vaginal Birth after Caesarean).
What lubricant should be used with EPI-NO?
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.
Of what material is the EPI-NO balloon made?
The EPI-NO balloon is produced in Germany of non-allergenic medical silicone. Damage to the balloon is extremely unlikely provided the balloon is not over-inflated or misused. Each balloon has been individually burst tested to stringent EEC safety standards for medical devices. (similar to the testing of condoms). EPI-NO should be stored safely in the pouch provided, and the balloon protected from risk of damage.
Why does the EPI-NO gauge only go to 16?
When the reading on the EPI-NO gauge stops midway at 16 this is normal as the gauge is calibrated in the low range to measure pelvic floor muscle strength. It does not mean the balloon is losing air pressure when it is being inflated. It is important to read the Instructions for Use carefully to understand the difference between the TWO sets of exercises that are performed with your EPI-NO. The gauge measures ONLY pelvic floor muscle strength when performing these exercises.
THE GAUGE DOES NOT MEASURE THE SIZE OF THE BALLOON DURING PERINEAL STRETCHING EXERCISES. Use the template in the box or in the IFU to measure the diameter of the balloon.
Is EPI-NO covered by a warranty?
EPI-NO is covered by a two year manufacturer’s warranty by Tecsana GmbH. Munich Germany. EPI-NO has a recommended Product Life of five years, or two births, whichever is the lesser and should not be used beyond this date.
When should EPI-NO Training commence?
EPI-NO Delphine Plus and EPI-NO Delphine are “Dual Purpose” Childbirth Trainers.
a) Pelvic Floor Training during pregnancy. It is recommended to commence using EPI-NO Delphine Plus EARLY in the pregnancy to strengthen pelvic floor muscles. A strong pelvic floor supports the added weight of pregnancy and assists in control during the delivery and in bladder control. In these exercises the minimally inflated balloon acts as a sensor.
b) Exercising the Perineum. This is a set of stretching exercises in which the balloon is gradually inflated at the vaginal os. These exercises commence after 36 weeks of the pregnancy up until the time of delivery. The exercises are progressive and will result in a stretch of between 8.5cm and 10.0cm. Women who achieve 8.5cm will reach 10.0cm during the crowning of the baby’s head at delivery. EPI-NO is used again following the birth to re-tone the pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor muscle exercises are important for all women following childbirth.
How do I measure the size of the balloon on the gauge?
The size of the balloon is not measured on the hand pump gauge. The gauge only measures the pelvic floor muscle strength when EPI-NO is used to exercise the pelvic floor. The size of the balloon is measured against a template in the Instructions for Use. Hold the balloon above the template and note the balloon diameter.
Can the EPI-NO balloon be purchased separately?
No. EPI-NO is a Single-User device and not designed, or registered, as a medical disposable product. For hygiene, and warranty reasons EPI-NO should NOT be passed between women. Under no circumstances should EPI-NO be purchased from any source unless in the original manufacturers sealed package.
Can premature contractions or a premature delivery be unintentionally initiated by training with EPI-NO?
No. In the EPI-NO clinical trials there were no indications whatsoever for any premature initiation of contractions or of premature birth. EPI-NO training should be undertaken under the guidance of a clinician, and any questions of a medical nature should be directed to a medical professional with knowledge of your medical history.
Is it possible to accidentally puncture the amniotic membrane by training with EPI-NO?
There are no indications whatsoever from the clinical studies or from the observations made by obstetricians and midwives that it is possible to puncture the amniotic membrane during EPI-NO training. The balloon is inserted 2/3 into the vagina and sits at the vaginal os. The balloon does not come into contact with the cervix.
Will EPI-NO training over-stretch the vagina?
EPI-NO perineal training is facilitated by the natural hormone Relaxin produced by the expectant mother in the late third trimester. Relaxin enables a elasticity of the perineum essential for a vaginal birth. EPI-NO gradually and gently stretches the tissue increasing the elasticity uniformly at the perineum. During childbirth the opening of the vagina must expand to 10.0cm to allow the passage of the baby’s head. The EPI-NO training accustoms the vagina to the stretching required in childbirth and facilitates its return to normal. Perineal injuries are generally the result of spontaneous tearing or of an episiotomy, often both. Clinical evidence shows EPI-NO training reduces this risk.
Are there any circumstances under which EPI-NO should not be used?
Where can further EPI-NO information be obtained?
“The human body performs to maximum efficiency in any physical activity when correctly trained and prepared. Childbirth is no exception”
Dr Wilhelm Horkel, Starnberg Germany
EPI-NO inventor


