What is a pessary? 

A pessary is a medical grade silicone device that fits into the vaginal canal to support the pelvic organs in the case of pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence.  It is a non-surgical, minimally invasive solution and offers immediate symptom relief.

 

In the past, pessaries were reserved for older patients who were non-surgical candidates, but that has changed drastically in recent years, a pessary is now an excellent option for the treatment of symptoms related to pelvic organ prolapse and/or stress incontinence.  Pessaries are appropriate for folks of any age, including those who which to preserve their child bearing potential, are not a surgical candidate or simply prefer a less invasive approach to symptom management. SOGC Clinical Practice Guideline No.411. 2021.

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The assessment and determination of which pessary to use, the measurement and fit of a pessary and the follow up to check symptom improvement are so very important in the success of pessary use.  If you have tried a pessary before and have stopped using it because you felt that it didn’t work or failed to improve your symptoms it may be because it was the wrong type of pessary for you or the incorrect size.  If this is the case, we would love to be your second opinion!

 

Who would benefit from a pessary?

• For those who have been diagnosed with any grade of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) with the presences of bothersome symptoms such as:

  • heaviness

  • pressure

  • palpable or visible bulging

  • difficulty with full voiding of bladder or bowels

  • mental or emotional bother

  • stress urinary incontincne

    • ANY involuntary loss of urine (leakage) with coughing, sneezing, laughing, jumping, running, heavy lifting

• For those who elect not to undergo surgery

• For those who are not surgical candidates

• For those awaiting surgery

• For those who are not yet done childbearing

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What to expect when being fit with a pessary?

• Discussion of symptoms, past medical history and indications for use

• Internal pelvic exam to assess for appropriate size and type of pessary

• Simulation of symptom producing activities to ensure appropriate fit and symptom resolution

• Subsequent visits to ensure continued successful use of pessary and vaginal health​

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Not sure if a pessary is right for you?  

Schedule a Discovery Call and let's figure it out together!

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Ready to get the show on the road?  

Schedule an Evaluation > Pessary Fitting with Dr. Jill O'Brien.

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