Pessary Fitting Service
What is a Pessary?
A pessary is a medical device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs. It is commonly used to manage pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Pessaries are a non-surgical option that can provide significant relief and improve the quality of life for many women.
Types of Pessaries
Pessaries come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to address specific conditions and needs. Pessaries are highly customizable and will be selected to ensure a comfortable and effective fit based on your body. With custom pessary fittings each patient can receive the pessary that meets her specific anatomical and medical needs. Pessaries can be removed if desired, which is a convenient feature compared to permanent surgery or other devices. The most common types of pessaries include:
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Ring Pessary: Simple and flexible, often used for mild prolapse and incontinence.
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Gellhorn Pessary: Features a stem, used for more significant prolapse.
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Cube Pessary: Has suction properties, suitable for severe prolapse.
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Donut Pessary: Ideal for advanced prolapse due to its larger size and surface area.
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Incontinence Dish Pessary: Designed specifically for urinary incontinence.
What the benefits of using a pessary?
Pessaries provide a non-surgical solution for managing pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). If you prefer to avoid surgery or are not a good candidate, a pessary is an excellent alternative. A pessary can be particularly beneficial for postpartum women experiencing pelvic floor weakness by providing the necessary internal support while allowing the body to heal naturally. Pessaries can provide immediate relief from symptoms and alleviate discomfort associated with prolapse. This can significantly improve your quality of life, allowing you to engage in daily activities without pain or inconvenient symptoms.
The Pessary Fitting Process
The pessary fitting process can be done during either an initial consultation or a regular follow-up visit. During a fitting, we will recommend a style and measure for the correct size. We keep the most common types of pessaries in stock in a variety of sizes, and we can order other types and sizes as needed. Once we determine the style and size recommended, we will ensure a comfortable fit. We don't always get it right the first time, so if we need to use a different size or style, we will do so with no additional charge to you. Once we get the right fit, you will be taught to insert, remove, and care for your pessary, including cleaning. Regular follow-up visits can ensure we inspect the fit and ensure you're comfortable.
Feel free to discuss options with your therapist, request a discovery call, or call our office directly if you think a pessary might be right for you.