Pessary for Pelvic Organ Prolapse
What Pessaries Are Used For and How They Work

Have you been to the gynecologist after feeling ‘something falling out down there’, and they told you that you have a prolapse? If you’ve been diagnosed with a prolapse, you have might have heard about pessaries.
A pessary is used to help treat the symptoms of pressure, heaviness, incontinence and/or pain. The concept of a supportive device for the pelvic organs has been around since Hippocrates, although health providers have made many, many improvements to the original wine-soaked pomegranate they used in 400 B.C.!
Sometimes, as we grow older or after having babies, our muscles can get tired. This can make our organs, like the bladder or uterus, feel a bit lax. That’s where these pessaries come in – they’re light support (like a bra) ensuring everything stays where it should. Getting a pessary is like getting a little extra hug for our insides, making sure everything is secure and happy.
What Exactly Is A Pessary?
A pessary is a soft, flexible device placed in the vaginal canal that helps support and lift the pelvic organs such as the bladder and uterus.
These devices aren’t just for women in menopause – they can be useful at any age and are actually very common. In fact, 86% of gynecologists use them daily when treating patients, and they are approved to be worn during pregnancy!
How Do I Get a Pessary?
Fittings
Pessaries are not one-size-fits all and require a fitting. But don’t get discouraged if the first one you have doesn’t feel quite right – there are plenty of changes that can be made to ensure a comfortable fit as well as a reduction in symptoms. Most studies report an 85% fitting success rate.
- How do I know if it fits right?
- It sits comfortably
- It stays in place without falling out
- You are able to use the bathroom without any issues
Follow Up Appointments
Your provider will schedule follow up appointments to ensure proper fitting and make adjustments as needed.
Should I Consider A Pessary?
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)
Research has shown that pessaries are able to prevent surgical interventions thought to be required for pelvic organ prolapse. In addition, some research has even shown pessaries have the same effects as surgical interventions. Severity (or level of grade) of your prolapse has not had any influence on pessary fittings.
Postpartum
Pessaries may even be used between pregnancies to position pelvic organs during the healing phase.
Symptom Management
Three months using a pessary can improve symptoms, improve quality of life and improve a person’s perception of their body image. They can also provide support WHILE going through physical therapy to allow for more efficient strengthening. This means that you may not need the pessary forever!
How Do I Care For A Pessary?
- Wear Schedule – Pessaries can be worn for hours, days, or weeks up to 3 months before requiring removal for cleaning, and you can insert/remove them by yourself.
- Call Provider – if you have concerns or questions after your pessary has been fitted.
- Shelf Life – Most pessaries last a very long time – they are made out of medical grade silicone and can be sanitized very easily.
What Role Does My Physical Therapist Play?
Education
Physical therapists are able to provide extensive education on the benefits of pessaries and whether you may be an appropriate candidate for a pessary fitting.
Fitting
At Breathe., we have trained, experience Physical Therapists to fit you for a pessary directly in our clinic to see if this is the right intervention for you!
Peace of Mind
Pessaries should not be a source of fear. A physical therapist can address any concerns, reservations, and fears about pessaries and hopefully provide you comfort and peace of mind moving forward.