Pessary Fitting
What is a pessary?
A pessary is a device made of silicone or plastic that is placed within the vagina to support the vaginal walls and pelvic organs. Think of a pessary like a ‘good fitting sports bra’!
Vaginal pessaries are efficacious and improve 80-90% of symptoms.
Why would a pessary be recommended and what are the benefits?
A pessary may be recommended to help manage your prolapse symptoms. Pessaries can also help to reduce or stop urinary leakage, prevent prolapse from worsening and prevent or delay surgical intervention. Pessaries can provide short term relief (whilst exercising) or can be used long term. Pessaries are often used in conjunction with pelvic floor muscle training to help support the tissues whilst the muscles are getting stronger.
An assessment by a Women’s & Pelvic Health Physiotherapist can determine which pessary may be suitable for you taking into account your individual needs and goals.
Can a pessary be used in the postnatal population?
Absolutely, if you have a prolapse after having a baby, a pessary can provide amazing support allowing your tissues to heal and also give you the opportunity to work on improving your pelvic floor function. They are especially helpful if you are wanting to return to high impact exercise.
What to expect:
Prior to pessary fitting it is essential to have a pelvic floor muscle assessment to ensure a pessary is suitable for you. Pessaries come in all shapes and sizes; we use pessary fitting kits to ensure we get the correct fit for you.
We liaise closely with your GP and/or gynaecologist to ensure the best possible management. We also commonly recommend the use of a topical oestrogen cream prior to having a pessary inserted to protect the vaginal tissues.
A pessary is a great conservative management option alongside pelvic floor muscle training and lifestyle modifications.