Vaginal Pessary for pelvic Organ Prolapse

Prolapse of the uterus (womb) and/or vaginal walls is a common condition affecting up to 50% of women. Up to 11% of women require surgery for prolapse during their lifetime. Prolapse generally occurs due to weakness of the supporting structures of the uterus or vagina. Weakening of the supports can occur during childbirth, as a result of chronic heavy lifting or straining e.g. with constipation, chronic cough, obesity and as part of the ageing process. In some cases, there may be a genetic weakness of the supportive tissues.

Prolapse of the uterus can cause an uncomfortable dragging sensation or feeling of fullness in the vagina, complaints of frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder and urinary tract infections. In more advanced cases, the prolapse can extend beyond the entrance of the vagina.

A vaginal pessary is a removable device that is placed in your vagina to support the weakened and prolapsed walls of the vagina or uterus. Different types of pessary are available: ring pessary with or without support, gellhorn pessary and a cube pessary are the most commonly used types of pessaries. Some pessaries such as ring pessaries can safely remain in the vagina for several months without removal.  Others, such as the cube pessaries, must be removed and cleaned on a daily basis. Most pessaries are made from silicone, a soft non-absorbant material that poses no threat to your health. After a while the outer surface of the pessary can discolor. This is normal and does not mean that a new pessary has to be placed.