Pessary Fitting
Pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence are common conditions affecting many women, often due to childbirth, ageing, or pelvic floor dysfunction. At the clinic, I offer pessary fittings as a non-surgical, effective, and reversible management option to support pelvic health and improve quality of life.
What Is a Pessary?
A pessary is a medical-grade silicone device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum. Pessaries can relieve symptoms of prolapse and, in some cases, help manage urinary incontinence. They are especially helpful for women seeking a conservative alternative to surgery or for those who are not yet ready or able to undergo an operation.
I offer a range of pessary types, but two of the most commonly fitted at the clinic are the ring pessary and the cube pessary.
Ring Pessary
What It Is
The ring pessary is a soft, flexible silicone ring, available with or without support (a diaphragm-like centre). It is commonly used to manage mild to moderate prolapse, particularly of the bladder (cystocele) or uterus.
Who It’s For
Women with mild to moderate pelvic organ prolapse
Those who wish to remove and clean their pessary themselves
Postpartum women requiring short-term support
Women who are sexually active (as it can usually remain in place during intercourse, depending on the type)
Benefits
Easy to insert and remove
Comfortable and discreet
Can be worn continuously or removed regularly, depending on individual needs and preference
Fitting Process
During a fitting, we assess vaginal tone, length, and the degree of prolapse to determine the most appropriate size. The fitting is gentle and guided by your comfort. Once fitted, we ensure the pessary stays in place and feels comfortable when standing and moving.
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Cube Pessary
What It Is
The cube pessary is designed for more advanced prolapse. It has a soft, cube-like shape with small suction indentations that help it stay securely in place by creating a vacuum effect against the vaginal walls.
Who It’s For
Women with moderate to severe prolapse
Those who may have tried other pessaries without success
Women seeking strong internal support without surgery
Benefits
Provides firm, reliable support
Suitable for higher grades of prolapse
Ideal for short-term or long-term use (with regular management)
Fitting Process
The cube pessary must be removed daily or nightly and reinserted by the user. During your appointment, I will guide you through correct insertion and removal techniques, ensuring confidence and comfort. A return visit is typically scheduled within 2 weeks to review your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
My Approach to Fittings
At the clinic, I prioritise:
Comfort and dignity during all fittings
Education so you feel confident managing your pessary at home
Follow-up support to monitor fit, comfort, and vaginal health
All fittings are performed in a respectful, supportive environment by an experienced pelvic health physiotherapist. I will always ensure you are well-informed and actively involved in the decision-making process.
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Is a Pessary Right for You?
Every woman is different. Pessaries can be a valuable part of your pelvic health care plan, either as a stand-alone management option or alongside pelvic floor therapy. If you are experiencing symptoms of prolapse or incontinence and would like to explore your options, I am here to help you feel supported and empowered.
Book a consultation today to learn more about pessary fittings and reclaim comfort and confidence in your everyday life.
