Vaginal Pessaries & The Pelvic Floor

by Julie Colan October 11, 2023

what are vaginal pessaries

If you're dealing with pelvic floor issues, you may have heard about vaginal pessaries. But what exactly are they, and how can they benefit you? In this article, we'll delve into the world of vaginal pessaries, exploring their types, benefits, and how they can work in harmony with pelvic floor exercises to improve your pelvic health.

If you suspect you may be dealing with a pelvic organ prolapse, it is crucial to consult your doctor at the earliest opportunity, as is the case with any medical condition.

What Are Vaginal Pessaries?

Vaginal pessaries are medical devices designed to support the pelvic organs and alleviate symptoms associated with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). They are typically made of medical-grade silicone and come in various shapes and sizes to cater to individual needs.

They are to provide reinforcement in cases where the pelvic floor muscles have weakened to the extent that one or more pelvic organs have descended or are at risk of descending.

How Do Pessaries Work?

A pessary works by providing structural support to the pelvic organs, effectively preventing them from descending or prolapsing into a woman's vagina. A pessary is inserted into the vagina to support a prolapsed bladder, bowel or uterus.

It can provide a valuable non-surgical option for managing pelvic organ prolapse.

By doing so, it helps alleviate discomfort, pressure, and urinary symptoms often associated with pelvic floor disorders. It's a non-invasive solution that can significantly enhance your quality of life.

Benefits of Vaginal Pessaries

Symptom Relief: Vaginal pessaries can alleviate a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including pelvic pressure, urinary incontinence, and vaginal bulging.
Non-Surgical Option: They provide a non-surgical alternative for managing pelvic organ prolapse, making them a preferred choice for many women.
Improved Quality of Life: Pessaries empower individuals to engage in daily activities without the hindrance of pelvic floor issues, restoring confidence and comfort.
Customizable Solutions: With various types and sizes available, pessaries can be tailored to suit each individual's unique anatomy and needs.
Preservation of Surgical Options: For some, pessaries may serve as a temporary solution while considering or preparing for surgical intervention.
Cost-Effective: Compared to surgical procedures, pessaries are a more economical option for managing pelvic floor disorders.

Types of Vaginal Pessary

Your doctor will conduct a vaginal examination to assess the extent of your prolapse. This assessment will guide them in determining whether a pessary is a suitable option for you and, if so, which type would be most effective.

The frequency of changing your fitted pessary depends on the type you have.

Ring Pessary

The ring pessary is a donut-shaped device that is inserted into the vagina to provide support. It's a popular choice due to its ease of use and versatility. However, some women may find it challenging to find the right size for a comfortable fit.

Shelf Pessary

Shelf pessaries have a flat, shelf-like extension that rests against the vaginal wall, providing support for the pelvic organs. They are especially effective for cases of significant prolapse.

Gellhorn Pessary

The Gellhorn pessary is more cone-shaped and is often used for severe cases of pelvic organ prolapse. Its design allows for greater support, making it a suitable option for advanced stages of the condition.

While pessaries offer invaluable relief, it's important to note that finding the right fit may require some trial and error. Consulting a healthcare professional experienced in fitting pessaries is crucial.

Can You Do Pelvic Floor Exercises with a Pessary?

Absolutely! In fact, combining pelvic floor exercises with a pessary can yield even more significant improvements.

The exercises help strengthen the surrounding muscles, complementing the support provided by the pessary. This combined approach can be highly effective in managing pelvic floor prolapse.

In conclusion, vaginal pessaries are a valuable tool in the journey to better pelvic health. Their versatility, coupled with the option of combining them with pelvic floor exercises, provides a comprehensive approach to managing pelvic floor disorders. If you'd like to explore further resources or products to support your pelvic health journey, feel free to check out the links below:

Can I use the vaginal weights if I have a pessary?

If you can take out the pessary on your own, then yes, you're able to do so. You may use the weights when the pessary is not in place. However, if it's a permanent pessary that only your healthcare provider can remove, then no, you can not.