Quick Answers
The questions we get asked most often
If you've got a question about E-Stim and want a fast answer rather than reading a full article, you're in the right place. Pick the question, get the answer, follow the link if you want the longer version.
We've grouped these by the kind of thing they are. Skip to the section that matches what you need.
Getting started
Is E-Stim safe? When used correctly, yes. E-Stim has been used recreationally for decades and medically for much longer. The kit we make is designed to medical safety standards and current-limited well below anything that could cause harm. The risks are around how you use it, not whether the box itself is safe. Read the safety guide before your first session. → Full article: E-Stim Safety
Will it hurt? Not unless you want it to. E-Stim sensation is controllable from a barely-there tickle through to intensities that experienced players seek out. You're in charge of the dial. Most people find their first session surprises them by how varied the sensations are. → Full article: What Does E-Stim Feel Like?
What do I need to start? A power box, an electrode, a cable, and conductive gel. That's the minimum. Our Intro 2 Electro range is designed to give you exactly that without overcomplicating the choice. → Full article: E-Stim First Steps
How much does decent kit cost? Our entry-level Intro2Electro setups get you started with a single-channel box and electrodes. Step up from there as your interest grows. We're not the cheapest on the market, but we would rather offer value for money than a cheap made in China device that has zero support and fails after the second use.
Can I use any old TENS unit? You can, but it won't feel anywhere near as good. TENS units are designed for pain relief, not pleasure. Different waveforms, different controls, different feel. If you've got one in a drawer, sure, see what it does.
Safety
Where can I put electrodes? Below the waist. That's the simple rule. The longer answer involves understanding current paths, but for new players, below the waist keeps you well clear of the heart and out of trouble.
Who shouldn't use E-Stim? People with pacemakers or implanted electrical devices. Anyone pregnant. People with epilepsy. Certain heart conditions. Recent surgery sites.
What if something goes wrong mid-session? Turn the box down, then off, then unplug. In that order. Most issues are minor and resolve immediately. If you've got concerns, stop and seek medical advice.
Is E-Stim safe with piercings? Healed piercings can work as conductive points in some setups. Unhealed piercings shouldn't be used at all.
Can I use E-Stim with an IUD? - (intrauterine device). We are not medical practitioners, so you should really consult your doctor, but in our experience there is no issue, Generally insertables don't go past the cervix, and the IUD is normally covered in a plastic insulator.
I have a metal hip implant will this cause an issue? Again the usual caveats about contacting your medical practitioner, but we have never heard of any issues. You might feel some tingling sensation depending on where you place the electrodes, but most of the time the current travels through the upper layers of skin.
Can I use E-Stim in the Bath? You remember the thing we were all taught about electricity and water, and how it is not a great idea? - That. Not a good idea at all so a big NO. Please don't. Apart from the fact the boxes are not waterproof, electricity and water is not a good mix.
Equipment
What's the difference between bipolar and monopolar? Bipolar electrodes have both contacts built in, one circuit, one electrode. Monopolar electrodes have a single contact and need a return contact elsewhere on the body. Most insertables are bipolar; penis plugs and sounds are usually monopolar.
Single channel or dual channel? Single channel runs one circuit. Dual channel runs two, useful for partner play, layered sensations, and TriPhase setups. Start with single, move to dual when you know what you want from it. → Full article: Choosing a PowerBox
What's the difference between the 2B and Series 2B? Same unit, two names. Some retailers call it one, some call it the other. Internally it's identical. → Full article: PowerBox Comparison
Can I use silicone lube? Not one we would recommend. Silicone is an insulator and will block the current. It also damages silicone-based electrodes and some cables. Always water-based conductive gel, never silicone or oil-based.
Can I use a condom with an insertable? A condom is an insulator. It blocks the current entirely, and the session won't happen. If barrier protection is part of your play, that's a different conversation.
What size insertable should I start with? Smaller than you think. Sensation comes from contact with the right nerves, not from going big. Pick something that fits comfortably; you can always go larger later. → Full article: Choosing an Insertable
In the session
Why can't I feel anything? Most likely: dry electrode contact, dead batteries, faulty cable, or the box not turned up. Check those first, in that order.
Why is the sensation uneven? Usually the electrode has shifted, or contact gel has moved. Pause, reposition, add a touch more gel, resume. Don't crank the power up to compensate. If it is one sided, then that is normal.
The box keeps cutting out / one channel doesn't work. Cables fail before boxes do, they bend and twist. Try a known-good cable.
How long should a session last? As long as you want it to, within reason. Take breaks if you are feeling the need for a break. Not because of safety, because variety is more interesting than the same thing hour after hour. We know people who play for hours, others for minutes.
Can my partner control the box? Yes, and we'd argue you should try it. Handing over the controls changes the whole dynamic. Talk it through first, agree on a stop signal, then enjoy letting go.
Cleaning and care
How do I clean electrodes? Warm water, mild soap, rinse, dry thoroughly before storing. Most of our electrodes can be disassembled for proper cleaning. Don't use alcohol on conductive rubber, it dries it out.
How long do sticky pads last? It varies. A few sessions of regular use, then the adhesive dies. Don't try to wash them, replace them.
Where do I store everything between sessions? Dry, clean, somewhere the cables aren't bent sharply. We supply hard carry cases for a reason
About us
Where are these made? Our workshop in Watford, England. Designed there, machined there, tested there, packed there, shipped from there.
Is there really a lifetime guarantee? Yes. On power boxes and insertable electrodes. We've fixed units sent back to us two decades after they were sold. We can offer it because we made them well in the first place. → Full article: Lifetime Guarantee
Are you the same as ElectraStim / Estim Emporium / E-Stim Connections? No. Different companies. We're sometimes confused with the others because the industry is small and the names overlap. We're E-Stim Systems Ltd, sometimes abbrevated to E-Stim, founded 2004, based in Watford UK.
Anything we haven't answered?
Drop us a line at info@e-stim.co.uk. If we get the same question more than twice, it ends up here. Your question might end up helping the next person.
Updated as the conversations come in. Last reviewed: May 2026.
