Pessary for vaginal prolapse

A pessary is a plastic or silicone device that fits in the vagina to help support and reduce symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse.

They come in many different shapes and sizes, which one will suit you is dependent on many factors. When in place they should be comfortable and not felt at all, they will support the vaginal walls and uterus (womb) as required. Some are removed daily, and some are left in place for 3-6 month periods of time.

Pessaries are a safe and effective non-surgical treatment for vaginal prolapse and can give immediate and life changing relief of symptoms.

If you feel you may benefit from a pessary, please book a pelvic health initial appointment prior to your pessary fitting appointment.  This enables us to comprehensively assess you and your prolapse, to ensure you will benefit from a pessary and that there are no reasons why you would not be unable to use one. We will discuss your personal needs and match you with the right pessary management programme in this initial appointment. We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages, risks and benefits of pessary use plus advice around additional measures that could be useful for you to maximise their effectiveness e.g., pelvic floor training, additional exercises, bowel management.

If you are being referred for a pessary fitting from another health care professional who has already done a comprehensive assessment, then we may be able to book you straight into a pessary fitting appointment. Please contact us via email or phone to discuss further if this is the case.

Here is some further useful information about pessaries for prolapse Pessaries for Prolapse | POGP (thepogp.co.uk)