Have you been told that you have a prolapse? You might be a candidate for a pessary.

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

• Prolapse literally means to “fall out of place”. This can happen to the uterus, bladder, urethra and rectal wall.

Who is at risk for a prolapse?

• Anyone who has gone through pregnancy/childbirth

• Those who do frequent heavy lifting

• Persons who suffer from constipation

• Someone who has a chronic cough

• Post-menopausal women

What are the symptoms of Prolapse?

• Feelings of pressure, fullness in the abdomen or pelvic floor/perineum

• Visible change at the opening of the vagina, feeling as if something is falling out

• Pain in the groin or back

• Urinary incontinence or frequency

What is a Pessary?

• It is a vaginal support device.

• It is made of soft/sturdy, nontoxic medical grade silicone.

• It is available in various styles/sizes.

• When fitted properly it cannot be felt in the vagina.

• It does not inhibit bowel and bladder function.

• It is worn for a period of time and can be removed.

• Certain styles do allow for sexual intercourse but most need to be removed.

How is fitting assessed?

• After an examination of the health of the vaginal skin, measurements are taken of the vaginal size/length and the stage of the prolapse.

• Once the pessary is fit into the vagina, you will be asked to move, jump, strain and cough and go to void in the bathroom.

• You will be taught how to insert and remove the pessary.

• You may be encouraged to use a vaginal gel during wear time to maintain proper moisture and pH of the vaginal skin.

• Patient will be scheduled for an evaluation 1 week later

• Fitting a Pessary is an art not a science, and with that you may need to be re-fitted for proper sizing.