What is Emsella® Chair Therapy?
BTL Emsella® is a revolutionary, FDA-cleared, non-invasive medical treatment designed to eliminate urinary incontinence and restore complete bladder control by strengthening the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor is a critical hammock of muscles and ligaments that supports the bladder, uterus, and bowels. When these muscles stretch or weaken due to childbirth, aging, weight fluctuations, or the hormonal changes of menopause, it often leads to embarrassing leaks when you laugh, cough, or exercise.
The Emsella treatment relies on an ergonomic medical chair that utilizes High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology. This specialized energy penetrates deep into the pelvic floor tissues, forcing the entire muscle group to undergo thousands of powerful, supramaximal contractions per session. This targeted stimulation builds muscle mass, repairs torn or stretched fibers, and re-educates the neuromuscular system controlling the bladder—all while you sit comfortably and fully clothed.
Request an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions About Emsella®
How exactly does the Emsella® chair work?
The Emsella chair uses focused electromagnetic waves to stimulate the precise nerves and muscles responsible for bladder control. During a single 28-minute treatment session, the Emsella chair triggers 11,200 supramaximal muscle contractions. A supramaximal contraction is a deep, maximal hold that is physically impossible to achieve on your own through voluntary exercises like traditional Kegels. This rapid, high-intensity workout fundamentally remodels and tightens the supportive pelvic floor tissue from the inside out.
What does the treatment feel like, and does it hurt?
Emsella chair therapy is completely painless and requires no anesthesia or numbing creams. When the session begins, you will feel a localized tingling sensation followed by a distinct pulling or contracting feeling across your pelvic floor muscles. Most patients describe the experience as a rapid series of intense but entirely tolerable muscle contractions. Because it is completely non-invasive, you remain fully clothed throughout the entire appointment and can comfortably read a book, use your phone, or chat with our team during the session.
How many Emsella® sessions will I need to see results?
While many patients notice a positive change in their bladder control after just one or two appointments, a full therapeutic course is required to achieve lasting muscle rehabilitation. A standard treatment plan at Miami Women’s Center consists of six total sessions, scheduled twice a week over a three-week period. To maintain your peak pelvic floor strength and keep leaks at bay, a single maintenance session is typically recommended once every 6 to 12 months.
Is there any downtime or recovery period?
None at all. Emsella is a true “walk-in, walk-out” procedure. Because there are no incisions, injections, or medications involved, your body experiences zero surgical trauma or fatigue. The moment your 28-minute session concludes, you can immediately stand up, drive yourself home, return to your office, or head to the gym without any physical restrictions or recovery downtime.
Who is an ideal candidate for Emsella® Chair Therapy?
Emsella is an outstanding, safe solution for women of all ages who are struggling with stress incontinence (leaking when coughing, sneezing, or jumping), urge incontinence (sudden, uncontrollable urges to run to the restroom), or mixed incontinence. It is highly beneficial for postpartum mothers looking to restore their pre-pregnancy pelvic tone and menopausal women experiencing weakened bladder support.
However, because the chair relies on powerful electromagnetic energy, it is not safe for patients who are currently pregnant or individuals with metal implants close to the treatment zone, such as pacemakers, copper IUDs (like Paragard®), or hip replacements. Our clinical team will thoroughly review your medical history to ensure Emsella is the perfect match for you.
What to Expect During Your Emsella® Appointment
When you undergo Emsella therapy at Miami Women’s Center, your care is handled in a private, comfortable, and stress-free environment:
- Customized Device Calibration: You will sit directly on the Emsella chair, remaining fully clothed in comfortable attire. Your provider will work with you to adjust the intensity settings dynamically, ensuring the electromagnetic energy is perfectly centered and calibrated to your personal comfort threshold.
- A Passive, Effortless Workout: For 28 minutes, you simply recline and relax. The chair performs the entire high-intensity physical rehabilitation program automatically while you rest.
- Immediate Lifestyle Resumption: Once the session ends, you can instantly resume your daily routine. There is no muscle soreness or bruising, meaning you can jump right back into your active lifestyle immediately.