Pessary Fitting services for Prolapse management

A pessary is a device that fits into the vagina to help support a prolapse of your uterus (ureterocele), bladder (cystocele/ anterior wall prolapse) and /or rectum (rectocele or posterior wall prolapse). A pelvic organ prolapse develops when one or more of the pelvic organs lose their endofascial support and as a result of gravity descend into the vaginal space.

Vaginal support pessaries are designed to substitute the support that was previously provided by the endopelvic fascia, and thereby relieve the symptoms of POP.

When are pessaries recommended?

The use of a vaginal pessary is indicated when indicated in the following circumstances:

1.     When it is the woman’s personal wish to avoid surgery

2.     When the risks of undergoing surgery are deemed to be high (due to age, co-existing medical conditions etc)

3.     When a woman has not completed her childbearing (future pregnancies are likely to damage any surgical repair) or

4.     As a temporary measure when there is thought there may still be a chance of spontaneous improvement (eg in the first year or two after childbirth).

5.     As a temporary measure whilst awaiting surgery.

 Common types of pessaries

Pessaries are made of latex or silicone and come in many different shapes and sizes. Three of the most common forms of pessary include:

Ring Pessary

This is the most basic form of pessary and the one most commonly used in Australia. It is easy to insert and remove but is also the easiest to fall out. Some women can achieve intercourse with this in place, whilst other can learn to insert and remove this pessary themselves.

The Gellhorn Pessary

This pessary is often used when the prolapse is more severe, or if a ring pessary has been unsuccessful (has fallen out). It has the added benefit of creating a vacuum suction to the top of the vagina to help hold it in place.

Cube Pessary

This pessary creates a suction seal to both the top of the vagina as well as the vaginal walls. This is therefore the strongest of the pessaries, but the one that places the most pressure on the vaginal walls. It is reasonably easy to insert and remove and is only suitable for patients who are comfortable inserting and removing their pessary themselves on a nightly basis.

Vaginal support pessary are a great option for many women looking for prolapse symptoms relief. If you would like to know more about vaginal support pessary or any of our other services please contact Embody Movement on 5337 9853 and book a consultation with Courtney Pointon, our women’s health physiotherapy to see whether this treatment option is right for you.