VULVO-PELVIC SUPPORT DEVICE

The vulvo-pelvic support device addresses discomfort by offering adjustable and comfortable compression and support for vulvopelvic pathologies through an elastic belt with customizable straps and a pelvic support band, enhancing user comfort and adaptability.

FR3163549A1Pending Publication Date: 2025-12-26FEMMA
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Patent Information

Application Number
FR2024006566
Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-06-19
Publication Date
2025-12-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Current vulvo-pelvic support devices do not provide effective compression, are not adaptable to various female body shapes, and are uncomfortable to wear, especially in the crotch area, failing to address vulvopelvic pathologies that cause discomfort and disability.

Method used

A vulvo-pelvic support device with an elastic compression belt and adjustable elastic straps, allowing customizable compression and support by varying strap length and attachment points, featuring a pelvic support band for vulvar and pelvic area relief.

Benefits of technology

The device offers adjustable and comfortable compression, support, and restraint for the vulva, pelvic area, and lower abdomen, improving quality of life by providing discreet, robust, and adaptable relief for vulvopelvic pathologies.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

VULVO-PELVIC SUPPORT DEVICE The invention relates to a vulvo-pelvic support device comprising an elastic support belt, at least two first fastening means and at least two second fastening means, a first elastic strap (3) and a second elastic strap (4) removably connected to the rear face of the belt (23) by one of the fastening means, a pelvic support band (5) configured to be positioned opposite the pubic area and to provide vulvo-pelvic support, wherein the length of each elastic strap (3, 4) is adjustable by the interaction between said elastic strap (3, 4) and a fastening means (24, 25). Abstract figure: Fig. 1
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Description

Title of the invention: VULVO-PELVIC SUPPORT DEVICE FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a vulvo-pelvic device configured to provide support and / or compression of the vulvar and pelvic area. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Throughout their lives, women may experience occasional or even permanent vulvopelvic pathologies, which in some cases can manifest as uncomfortable heaviness in the pelvic floor. Among the vulvopelvic pathologies encountered are vulvar varices, pelvic varices, urogenital prolapse, premenstrual syndrome or menstrual pain, pelvic congestion syndrome, and pelvic-vulvar or perineal edema (following childbirth or gynecological surgery). In addition to pain, these pathologies can result in an inability to stand or walk. The daily and professional lives of these women can then be disrupted, as these pathologies can be so bothersome or even debilitating.Furthermore, the pathologies mentioned, if not treated effectively, can lead to sequelae: incontinence, organ prolapse, sometimes irreversible loss of tone in the vulvar veins, pain during sexual intercourse, etc.

[0003] Traditionally, treatment options for these conditions include medication, physiotherapy, and in some cases, surgery. Since targeted compression and support to the vulvar and pelvic region provide immediate relief to women suffering from these conditions, vulvo-pelvic support devices represent a non-invasive alternative that significantly improves patients' quality of life.

[0004] Current models of these devices do not provide effective compression at the vulva or lower abdomen, they are not adaptable to a wide variety of female body shapes (particularly during pregnancy), and they do not allow for adjusting the strength and area of ​​compression according to the patient's needs. Finally, these devices, like many compression devices, are not comfortable to wear, especially in the crotch area.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for effective, adjustable, and comfortable vulvo-pelvic support devices.

[0006] The invention thus relates to a vulvo-pelvic support device intended to be worn by a user, comprising an elastic compression belt, a pelvic floor support band, and two elastic straps whose length and position are adjustable according to the user's compression and / or support needs. SUMMARY

[0007] The invention relates to a vulvo-pelvic support device comprising: - an elastic support belt comprising: • a front face and a back face; • at least two first means of attachment and at least two second means of attachment located on the rear face on either side of the median axis of the rear face of the elastic belt, each first means of attachment being symmetrical to a second means of attachment with respect to the median axis; - a first elastic strap having a first end connected to the front face of the belt and a second end removably connected to the back face of the belt by one of the first two means of attachment; - a second elastic strap having a first end connected to the front face of the belt and a second end removably connected to the back face of the belt by one of the two second means of attachment; - a pelvic support band configured to be positioned opposite the pubic area and to provide vulvo-pelvic support, the pelvic support band comprising a first end connected to the front face of the belt and a second end connected to each of the elastic straps in two connection areas; in which the elastic straps cross in a crossing area located opposite the pelvic support band and each connecting area is located between the crossing area and the second end of the corresponding elastic strap; in which the length of each elastic strap is adjustable by the cooperation between said elastic strap and a fastening means.

[0008] By allowing the adjustment of the length of its elastic straps, the vulvo-pelvic support device offers compression, support and / or containment of the external gynecological areas, including the vulva, pelvic floor, lower abdomen and / or scrotum.

[0009] Furthermore, the vulvo-pelvic support device advantageously offers two adjustment positions depending on the fastening means chosen to target the area to be compressed or supported, and allows for fine adjustment of the compression or support force applied to this area by adjusting the length of each strap elastic. The presence of these adjustment options also allows the user to choose the version she considers most aesthetically pleasing.

[0010] The structure of the vulvo-pelvic support device therefore makes it particularly effective in its function of compression, containment and / or pelvic support, ensuring good compression to relieve the user while being discreet, robust, adaptable to any female morphology and comfortable.

[0011] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, each elastic strap includes a reversible fastening means such that the removable attachment of an elastic strap to the elastic belt is ensured by the cooperation between said elastic strap, a fastening means, and the fastening means. This allows the length of said elastic strap to be adjusted, and therefore the compression and support exerted on the vulvar and / or pelvic area.

[0012] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the distance between a first fixing means and a second fixing means is between 5 cm and 100 cm. Varying this distance makes it possible to adjust the compression and support on certain areas according to the needs of the subject, particularly at the level of the vulva and scrotum.

[0013] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the distance between two first fastening means or between two second fastening means is between 1 cm and 20 cm. Varying this distance makes it possible to adjust the compression and support in certain areas according to the subject's needs, in particular to adjust the sensation at the level of the vulva and scrotum. For example, a small distance between two first fastening means and / or between two second fastening means will offer a small difference in sensation between the two compression positions of the straps compared to a large distance between two first fastening means and / or between two second fastening means where the gradient of sensation will be more pronounced, i.e., the transition from compression / support of the vulvo-pelvic area to compression / support of the scrotal area will be more marked.

[0014] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the belt comprises an upper edge and a lower edge, and the distance between a fastening means and the lower edge of the belt is between 0.5 cm and 10 cm. Advantageously,

[0015] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the vulvo-pelvic support band comprises at least a first layer of elastic material and at least a second layer of convoluted foam material. The convoluted foam layer, intended to be placed in indirect contact against the user's vulvo-pelvic area (through a layer of clothing), is breathable. Furthermore, this convoluted foam layer also advantageously acts as a barrier between the elastic straps and the user's pubic area.

[0016] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the elastic belt has a width between 50 mm and 500 mm. A high-waisted belt provides relief from lower abdominal pain due to this compression of the lower abdomen, and a complementary effect between pelvic floor support and compression of the pelvic region (the area located in the lower part of the abdomen which includes, in particular, the bladder, rectum, and internal organs such as the uterus and vagina).

[0017] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the first end of the pelvic support band is connected to the front face of the elastic belt at a connection point, and the first ends of the elastic straps are connected to the front face of the elastic belt at this same connection point. Advantageously,

[0018] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, in the connection zone, the elastic straps are located between the elastic belt and the pelvic support band. Advantageously,

[0019] According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the belt has a maximum manual elongation value substantially between 85% and 115%, preferably substantially equal to 100%, and / or a force value required for a 30% elongation substantially between 195 cN / cm and 255 cN / cm, preferably substantially equal to 220 cN / cm. Such an elastic belt combines comfort, adaptability, support, durability, and performance. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The invention relates to a vulvo-pelvic support device, as illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, comprising: - an elastic compression belt including: • a front face and a back face; • at least two first means of attachment and at least two second means of attachment located on the rear face on either side of the median axis of the rear face of the elastic belt, each first means of attachment being symmetrical to a second means of attachment with respect to the median axis; - a first elastic strap having a first end connected to the front face of the belt and a second end removably connected to the back face of the belt by one of the first two means of attachment; - a second elastic strap having a first end connected to the front face of the belt and a second end removably connected to the back face of the belt by one of the two second means of attachment; - a pelvic support band configured to be positioned opposite the pubic area and provide vulvo-pelvic support, the support band pelvic comprising a first end connected to the front face of the belt and a second end connected to each of the elastic straps in two connection zones.

[0021] The elastic straps cross in a crossing area located opposite the pelvic support band and each linking area is located between the crossing area and the second end of the corresponding elastic strap.

[0022] The length of each elastic strap is adjustable by the cooperation between said elastic strap and a fastening means.

[0023] The vulvo-pelvic support device is designed to be worn, preferably, over underwear. The pelvic floor support band (also called a compression hammock) is not intended to serve as underwear or to be in direct contact with a user's vulva or pubic area. The back of the elastic band is intended to be positioned at the user's back, on the back side, while the front is intended to be positioned at the user's front, on the abdomen side.

[0024] By allowing the adjustment of the length of its elastic straps, the vulvo-pelvic support device offers compression, support and / or restraint of the external gynecological areas, including the vulva, pelvic area, lower abdomen and / or scrotum.

[0025] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 3, the vulvo-pelvic support device takes the form of a pair of briefs in that the two elastic straps cross at a crossover point, forming, with the elastic waistband positioned at the pelvis, two insertion points for the user's thighs. A user requiring compression, support, and / or restraint of one or more of the aforementioned areas will put on the vulvo-pelvic support device by placing the elastic waistband around her hips at the pelvis and inserting each leg into the opening formed between each elastic strap and said waistband. She can then easily choose which area to apply the compression, support, and / or restraint to by selecting which fastening method works with each elastic strap, and adjust the strength of the compression, support, and / or restraint by adjusting the length of each elastic strap.

[0026] The vulvo-pelvic support device advantageously allows for fine and adjustable compression, support and / or restraint.

[0027] Indeed, the choice of fastening means cooperating with each elastic strap determines the area on which compression is applied: vulva, pelvis, scrotum. As illustrated in [Fig. 2], the first and second fastening means are symmetrical in pairs with respect to the median axis of the rear face of the elastic belt, thus the user can choose to have the elastic straps cooperate with The closest (i.e., most central) fastening points reduce the gap between the elastic straps and increase compression at the scrotum and support for the lower abdomen. This configuration is particularly beneficial for women experiencing pelvic congestion. Alternatively, the user can choose to have the elastic straps work with the furthest (i.e., most eccentric) fastening points, increasing the gap between the elastic straps and providing compression in the vulvopelvic area.

[0028] A variation in the distance between the first and second means of attachment in pairs will also have an impact on the user's experience.

[0029] Finally, adjusting the length of each elastic strap allows the compression, support, and / or restraint applied to an area to be modified according to the user's needs and comfort. The length of the elastic straps ensures the device is compatible with different buttock shapes.

[0030] The support function, provided by the pelvic support band, is further reinforced by the crossing area of ​​the elastic straps, opposite said band.

[0031] Thus, the structure of the vulvo-pelvic support device makes it particularly effective in its function of compression, containment and / or pelvic support, ensuring good compression to relieve the user while being discreet, robust, adaptable to any female morphology and comfortable.

[0032] The elastic belt can have a width between 50 mm and 500 mm, preferably between 55 mm and 200 mm. A greater width corresponds here to a so-called high-waisted belt as illustrated in [Fig. 5], which also provides compression to the lower abdomen. Advantageously, a high-waisted belt provides relief from lower abdominal pain due to this compression to the lower abdomen, and offers a complementary benefit between pelvic floor support and compression of the pelvic region (the area located in the lower part of the abdomen which includes, in particular, the bladder, rectum, and internal organs such as the uterus and vagina).

[0033] The elastic waistband can have a total length of between 40 cm and 150 cm, preferably between 50 cm and 115 cm. This range corresponds to all the device sizes envisaged so that it can be worn by users wearing clothing sizes 34-54.

[0034] The elastic belt may have a thickness of between 1 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 1 mm and 3 mm. Advantageously, a thinner profile allows the vulvo-pelvic support device to be discreet under clothing.

[0035] The elastic belt may have a maximum manual elongation value substantially between 85% and 115%, preferably substantially equal to 100%, and / or a force value required for an elongation of 30% substantially between 195 cN / cm and 255 cN / cm, preferably substantially equal to 220 cN / cm cm. Advantageously, such a belt allows for improved comfort throughout the day and increased morphological adaptability because the belt can comfortably adjust around the waist for a variety of body shapes and sizes. It can thus stretch sufficiently to accommodate different waist sizes while returning to its original shape. This elasticity also ensures optimal support for the vulvo-pelvic support device, preventing it from slipping or shifting excessively, while allowing some flexibility for daily movements and increased durability due to reduced permanent deformation of the belt, thus extending the device's lifespan. Finally, this elasticity also allows the device to be adapted for pregnant women whose pelvic circumference will naturally change during pregnancy.

[0036] The elastic waistband may include a ribbed elastic.

[0037] The elastic belt includes an upper edge and a lower edge, and the distance between a fastening means and the lower edge of the belt can be between 0.5 cm and 10 cm, preferably between 1 cm and 5 cm.

[0038] The back face of the elastic belt may include a reinforcement band having a maximum manual elongation value and / or a force value required for elongation 30% lower than that of the elastic belt. This reinforcement band advantageously provides greater support at the lower back of the user.

[0039] Preferably, the reinforcement band is centered on the back so as to be positioned in the center of the user's back. Preferably, this reinforcement band is a self-locking cotton band padded with foam.

[0040] The elastic waistband may further include reinforcing bands on the sides. Preferably, these reinforcing bands are self-locking cotton bands padded with foam. These lateral reinforcing bands advantageously provide greater comfort because they prevent the elastic waistband from rolling up on itself (widthwise).

[0041] The front and back faces of the elastic belt can be combined and form a single element. Alternatively, the front and back faces of the elastic belt can be joined together to form the elastic belt, for example, they can be sewn together.

[0042] The distance between a first and a second fixing means can be between 5 cm and 100 cm, preferably between 10 cm and 75 cm, and more preferably between 15 cm and 49 cm. The distance between a first and a second fixing means has a direct impact on the areas targeted by compression and / or support. Advantageously, varying this distance allows the compression and support to be adjusted in certain areas according to the needs of the The subject, particularly in the areas of the vulva, scrotum, and lower abdomen, is addressed. For example, a shorter distance will provide enhanced support for the scrotum. The range of distances also ensures the device's effectiveness for all female body shapes. This range encompasses all the device sizes considered, allowing it to be worn and provide effective support for users from size 34 to size 44: a shorter distance is used for a device configured for a size 34 user, and a longer distance for a size 44 user.

[0043] The distance between two first fastening means and / or between two second fastening means can be between 1 cm and 20 cm, preferably between 2 cm and 15 cm. The distance between two first fastening means or between two second fastening means has a direct impact on the sensation of support and the areas targeted by compression and / or support. Advantageously, varying this distance makes it possible to adjust the compression and support on certain areas according to the subject's needs, in particular to adjust the sensation at the level of the vulva, scrotum, and lower abdomen. For example, a small distance between two first fastening means and / or between two second fastening means will offer a small difference in sensation between the two compression positions of the straps compared to a large distance between two first fastening means and / or between two second fastening means where the gradient of sensation will be more pronounced, i.e.The shift from compression / support of the vulvo-pelvic area to compression / support of the scrotum and lower abdomen will be more pronounced.

[0044] The first and / or second fastening means may be rings, loops such as, for example, rectangular loops, ladder loops, cam loops, D-loops, sliding loops, or keeper loops. Advantageously, such fastening means allow an elastic strap to be passed through the fastening means for adjustment. This allows for quick and easy adjustment of the elastic strap.

[0045] The first means of fixing and / or second means of fixing may have a rectangular, square, circular, or D-shaped form.

[0046] The first and / or second fastening means may be made of fabric, metal or plastic. Preferably, they are made of plastic.

[0047] The first and / or second fastening means have a width greater than or equal to the width of an elastic strap (between the first and second elastic straps, depending on which one is required to cooperate with said fastening means). This allows cooperation between the elastic strap and the fastening means, for example, the passage of said elastic strap through the fastening means.

[0048] The first and / or second means of attachment can be glued or sewn onto the back face of the elastic belt.

[0049] The first means of attachment and / or second means of attachment can define an angle with the lower edge of the elastic belt between 0° and 50°.

[0050] The elastic straps may have a maximum manual elongation value of substantially between 60% and 80%, preferably substantially equal to 70%, and / or a force value required for 30% elongation of substantially between 350 cN / cm and 450 cN / cm, preferably substantially equal to 400 cN / cm. Advantageously, such elasticity allows for improved comfort throughout the day and increased morphological adaptability while ensuring effective support and compression at the vulvo-pelvic level. Furthermore, it allows for durability and recovery of the initial shape of the elastic straps, preventing them from loosening over time.

[0051] The elastic straps can have a length between 20 cm and 100 cm, preferably between 40 cm and 70 cm.

[0052] The elastic straps may have a width between 1 cm and 5 cm, preferably between 2.5 cm and 3 cm.

[0053] The elastic straps can have a thickness between 0.1 cm and 1 cm.

[0054] Elastic straps

[0055] The length of the elastic straps can be adjusted between 50% and 95%. In other words, after adjustment, the adjusted length of an elastic strap (extending between the front end of the elastic strap and the fastening means which enabled the adjustment) can be equal to between 50% and 95% of its total length at rest (i.e. not worn, not adjusted).

[0056] Each elastic strap may include a reversible fastening means such that the removable attachment of an elastic strap to the elastic belt is ensured by the cooperation between said elastic strap, a fastening means, and the fastening means. This advantageously allows adjustment of the length of said elastic strap and therefore of the compression and support exerted on the vulvar and / or pelvic area.

[0057] For example, the fastening means may comprise male and female means arranged in a compatible manner on the same elastic strap, i.e., configured to engage cooperatively and reversibly to secure the strap in place. This advantageously allows for reversible fastening of the strap and thus the possibility of adjusting its length at any time. Preferably, the rear end of the elastic strap (i.e., intended to be attached to the rear face of the elastic belt) comprises male means, and the surface of the elastic strap extending from the crossing area to this rear end comprises female means.

[0058] Examples of fastening means include, but are not limited to, a male and female snap fastener, a hook and loop fastener, XX. Preferably, the fastening means is a hook and loop fastener comprising a surface with hook-shaped fastening elements and a corresponding surface with loop-shaped fastening elements. When pressed together, the hook and loop elements engage each other, creating a secure and reversible grip. Preferably, the rear end of the elastic strap (i.e., intended to be attached to the rear face of the elastic belt) comprises the hook elements, and the surface of the elastic strap extending from the crossover area to this rear end comprises the loop elements.Thus, the strap length can be adjusted along its entire portion extending from the crossover area to the elastic waistband, advantageously allowing for optimal compression / support adjustment.

[0059] Preferably, the fastening means is a ring or a loop and the elastic strap includes a self-gripping strip such that when the elastic strap passes through the ring or loop, the surface of the self-gripping strip including hook-shaped fastening elements is opposite the surface of the self-gripping strip including loop-shaped fastening elements so that, after adjusting the length of the elastic strap, these elements can engage to ensure that this adjustment is maintained.

[0060] The vulvo-pelvic support band may comprise at least a first layer of elastic material and at least a second layer of convoluted foam material. Advantageously, the convoluted foam layer, intended to be placed in indirect contact against the pelvic floor and more particularly the vulvar area of ​​the user (through a layer of clothing), is breathable. Furthermore, this convoluted foam layer also advantageously acts as a barrier between the elastic straps and the user's pubic area.

[0061] For example, the second layer may comprise first elastic synthetic fibers, such as elastane fibers, and second synthetic fibers, such as polyester or polyurethane fibers.

[0062] The second layer may comprise between 93% and 97% of second fibers, preferably 95%, and between 3% and 7% of first fibers, preferably 5%.

[0063] The first layer may, in particular, have a maximum manual elongation value substantially between 60% and 80%, preferably substantially equal to 70%, and / or a force value required for an elongation of 30% substantially between 210 cN / cm and 290 cN / cm, preferably substantially equal to 250 cN / cm. Advantageously, such elasticity allows for improved comfort throughout the day and increased morphological adaptability while ensuring effective support and compression at the vulvo-pelvic level.

[0064] The vulvo-pelvic support band may advantageously have a maximum elongation value in the direction of its largest dimension (i.e. between its first end connected to the elastic belt and its second end connected to the elastic straps) of substantially between 35% and 50%, preferably substantially equal to 42%, and a maximum elongation value in a direction perpendicular to this first direction (i.e. edge to edge) of substantially between 15% and 25%, preferably substantially equal to 20%.

[0065] The length of the pelvic support band varies between 20 cm and 30 cm depending on the sizes.

[0066] As illustrated in [Fig.4], the first end of the pelvic support band can be connected to the front face of the elastic belt in a front connection area, the first ends of the elastic straps being connected to the front face of the elastic belt in this same front connection area.

[0067] In a specific configuration illustrated in [Fig.4], in the front connection area, the elastic straps are located between the elastic belt and the pelvic support band.

[0068] The pelvic support band can extend more or less far beyond the crossing point of the elastic straps, towards the rear of the elastic waistband, depending on the user and / or the portion of the pelvic area where support or compression is desired. In particular, for a support effect desired in the anal area, in cases of hemorrhoids or rectocele, for example, the pelvic support band can be designed to extend towards the rear of the elastic waistband sufficiently to be in contact with the anal area.

[0069] The pelvic support band may have a substantially triangular or trapezoidal shape. The pelvic support band may be hammock-shaped. The pelvic support band may also be called a pelvic support hammock.

[0070] The pelvic support band may have a length (i.e. a larger dimension, preferably extending from the front of the elastic belt to the area where the straps cross) of between 10 cm and 40 cm, preferably between 15 cm and 25 cm.

[0071] The pelvic support band may have a width at the front connection area (i.e. the area where the pelvic support band is connected to the elastic belt) of between 2 cm and 10 cm, preferably between 4 cm and 6 cm.

[0072] The pelvic support band may have a width at the point where the elastic straps cross (i.e., the area where the pelvic support band is connected (with elastic straps) between 2 cm and 10 cm, preferably between 4 cm and 6 cm.

[0073] The width of the pelvic support band at the front connection area (i.e. the area where the pelvic support band is connected to the elastic belt) is greater than its width at the area where the elastic straps cross.

[0074] The elastic straps can have a thickness between 0.1 cm and 1 cm.

[0075] The invention also relates to a method of assembling the support device vulvo-pelvic described here.

[0076] The assembly method comprises the following steps: - assembly of the pelvic support band by sewing the ends of a layer of convoluted foam to the ends of a ribbed elastic; - assembly by sewing of the front and back faces of the elastic waistband, optionally with reinforcement; - attachment of at least two first means of attachment and at least two second means of attachment on the rear face on either side of the median axis of the rear face of the elastic belt - fixing one end of the vulvo-pelvic support band and one end of two elastic straps to the front face of the elastic belt; - fixing a second end of the vulvo-pelvic support band to each of the elastic straps in two connection zones; - the elastic straps cross in a crossing area located opposite the pelvic support band and each connecting area is located between the crossing area and the second end of the corresponding elastic strap.

[0077] The assembly method may include attaching a reversible fastening means to each elastic strap so that the removable attachment of an elastic strap to the elastic belt is ensured by the cooperation between said elastic strap, a fastening means and the fastening means.

[0078] The invention also relates to the use of the vulvo-pelvic support device described herein for the relief of vulvar varices, pelvic varices, genital prolapse, premenstrual syndrome or menstrual pain, pelvic varices with or without pelvic congestion syndrome, pelvic-perineal edema, pelvic or vulvar heaviness.

[0079] The vulvo-pelvic support device described herein can also be used after gynecological surgery requiring a long healing period.

[0080] The device of the invention provides instant relief to women suffering from the aforementioned pathologies thanks to the compression, support and comfort it provides to The entire pelvic floor. It advantageously allows women to adopt a prolonged standing position without experiencing uncomfortable sensations of heaviness in the vulva, vagina or lower abdomen.

[0081] For example, in cases of suspected pelvic varicose veins with or without vulvar varicose veins, pelvic Doppler ultrasound is the recommended examination, and if the diagnosis is confirmed, the vascular physician will refer the patient to an interventional radiologist. Embolization may be offered to the patient. The use of a vulvo-pelvic support device may be recommended before or after embolization, or if the patient refuses the procedure.

[0082] For example, in the case of a stage 1 or 2 prolapse observed by a healthcare professional, the use of the vulvo-pelvic support device may be recommended alone or in addition to perineal rehabilitation sessions.

[0083] For example, in the case of a stage 3 or 4 prolapse observed by a healthcare professional, the use of the vulvo-pelvic support device may be recommended for patients who are not operable or who do not wish to be operated on. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0084] [Fig-1] represents a front view of the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 according to a first mode of implementation.

[0085] [Fig.2] represents a rear view of the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 according to the first mode of implementation.

[0086] [Fig.3] represents a rear view of the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 worn by a user.

[0087] [Fig.4] represents the front connection area in which the elastic straps (3, 4) and the pelvic support band 5 are attached to the front of the elastic belt 22.

[0088] [Fig. 5] represents a rear view of the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 according to a second embodiment. ILLUSTRATIVE METHODS OF IMPLEMENTING THE INVENTION

[0089] According to a first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 comprises: - an elastic compression belt 2 comprising: • a front face 22 and a rear face 23; • a reinforcement band 231 having a maximum manual elongation value and / or a force value required for elongation 30% lower than that of the elastic belt 2; • two first fixing means 24 and two second fixing means 25 located on the rear face 23 on either side of the median axis X of the rear face 23, each first fixing means 24 being symmetrical to a second means of fixation 25 with respect to the median axis X; - a first elastic strap 3 having a first end 31 connected to the front face of the belt 22 and a second end 32 connected in a removable way to the rear face of the belt 23 by one of the first two fastening means 24; - a second elastic strap 4 having a first end 41 connected to the front face of the belt 22 and a second end 42 connected in a removable way to the rear face of the belt 23 by one of the two second means of attachment 25; - a pelvic support band 5 configured to be positioned opposite the pubic area and to provide vulvo-pelvic support, the pelvic support band 5 comprising a first end 51 connected to the front face of the belt 22 and a second end 52 connected to each of the elastic straps (3,4) in two connection areas 52.

[0090] The elastic straps (3, 4) cross in a crossing zone 6 located opposite the pelvic support band 5 and each linking zone 52 is located between the crossing zone 6 and the second end of the corresponding elastic strap (32, 42).

[0091] The length of each elastic strap (3, 4) is adjustable by the cooperation between said elastic strap (3, 4) and a fastening means (24, 25).

[0092] In Figures 1 and 2, the elastic straps (3, 4) cooperate with the fastening means (24, 25) that are furthest apart from each other. This advantageously allows targeting of the vulvo-pelvic area.

[0093] This embodiment is therefore particularly advantageous because the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 offers compression, support and / or restraint of the vulvo-pelvic area customized by adjusting the elastic straps (3, 4).

[0094] In an embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 3], the elastic straps (3, 4) of this same vulvo-pelvic support device 1 cooperate with the fastening means (24, 25) that are close to each other, i.e., the most centrally located. This advantageously allows targeting of the scrotal area.

[0095] This embodiment is particularly advantageous because the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 offers compression, support and / or restraint of the scrotum customized by adjusting the elastic straps (3,4).

[0096] As illustrated in [Fig. 4], the first end of the pelvic support band 51 is connected to the front face of the elastic belt 22 at a front connection zone 221, and the first ends of the elastic straps (31, 41) are connected to the front face of the elastic belt 22 at this same front connection zone 221. The straps elastic bands (3, 4) are located between the elastic belt 2 and the pelvic support band 5.

[0097] According to a second embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 5], the vulvo-pelvic support device 1 further comprises a wide, high-waisted elastic belt 2. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it provides relief from lower abdominal pain due to this compression of the lower abdomen, and offers a complementary benefit between pelvic floor support and compression of the pelvic region (the area located in the lower part of the abdomen which includes, in particular, the bladder, rectum, and internal organs such as the uterus and vagina). NUMERICAL REFERENCES

[0098] 1 - Vulvo-pelvic support device II 2- Elastic belt / / 22 - Front view / / 221 - Front attachment zone / / 23 - Rear face / / 24 - First fastening means / / 25 - Second fastening means / / 231 - Reinforcing band / / 3 - First elastic strap / / 31 - First end / / 32 - Second end / / 4 - Second elastic strap / / 41 - First end / / 42 - Second end / / 5 - Pelvic support band / / 51 - First end / / 52 - Second end / / 53 - Rear attachment zone / / 54 - First layer of elastic material / / 55 - Second layer of open-cell foam material / / 6 - Crossover zone / / 7 - Reversible fastening means / / X - Median axis of the rear face of the belt

Claims

1. Demands Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) comprising: - an elastic compression belt (2) comprising: • a front face (22) and a rear face (23); • at least two first fastening means (24) and at least two second fastening means (25) located on the rear face (23) on either side of the median axis of the rear face of the elastic belt (X), each first fastening means (24) being symmetrical to a second fastening means (25) with respect to the median axis (X); - a first elastic strap (3) having a first end (31) connected to the front face of the elastic belt (22) and a second end (32) connected in a removable way to the rear face of the elastic belt (23) by one of the first two means of attachment; - a second elastic strap (4) having a first end (41) connected to the front face of the elastic belt (22) and a second end (42) connected in a removable way to the rear face of the elastic belt (23) by one of the two second means of attachment; - a pelvic support band (5) configured to be positioned opposite the pubic area and to provide vulvo-pelvic support, the pelvic support band (5) comprising a first end (51) connected to the front face of the elastic belt (22) and a second end (52) connected to each of the elastic straps in two connecting areas (53); in which the elastic straps cross in a crossing zone (6) located opposite the pelvic support band (5) and each connecting zone (53) is located between the crossing zone (6) and the second end of the corresponding elastic strap (32, 42); in which the length of each elastic strap (3, 4) is adjustable by the cooperation between said elastic strap (3, 4) and a fastening means (24, 25).

2. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to claim 1, wherein each elastic strap (3, 4) includes a reversible fastening means (7) such that the removable attachment of an elastic strap (3, 4) to the elastic belt (2) is ensured by the cooperation between said elastic strap (3, 4), a fastening means (24, 25) and the fastening means (7).

3. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the distance between a first fixing means (24) and a second fixing means (25) is between 5 cm and 100 cm.

4. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the distance between two first means of fixation or between two second means of fixation is between 1 cm and 20 cm.

5. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the elastic belt (2) comprises an upper edge and a lower edge, and the distance between a fastening means (24, 25) and the lower edge of the elastic belt (2) is between 0.5 cm and 10 cm.

6. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the vulvo-pelvic support band (5) comprises at least a first layer of elastic material (54) and at least a second layer of honeycomb foam-type material (55).

7. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the elastic belt (2) has a width between 50 mm and 500 mm.

8. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first end of the pelvic support band (51) is connected to the front face of the elastic belt (22) in a front connection area (221) and the first ends of the elastic straps (31,41) are connected to the front face of the elastic belt (22) in this same front connection area (221).

9. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to claim 8, wherein, in the front connection area (221), the elastic straps are located between the elastic belt (2) and the pelvic support band (5).

10. Vulvo-pelvic support device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the elastic belt (2) has a maximum manual elongation value substantially between 85% and 115%, preferably substantially equal to 100%, and / or a force value required for an elongation of 30% substantially between 195 cN / cm and 255 cN / cm, preferably substantially equal to 220 cN / cm.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Pelvic support device

    EP4223261A1

  • Adjustable athletic support garment and incontinence pad holder

    US5876395A