Pessary Service
PRIOR TO ANY PESSARY ASSESSMENT AND TRIAL OF FITTING - YOU MUST HAVE ATTENDED AN INITIAL PELVIC HEALTH CONSULTATION WITH MYSELF.
What is a pessary?
A pessary is a silicone or PVC device that you insert into the vagina to help support a pelvic organ prolapse. There are many different styles of pessaries, however the type I will use in clinic are silicone rings and cube style. They should feel comfortable whilst wearing. Some pessaries are removed daily and you may be taught to manage a pessary yourself which will involve taking it in and out, and others can be left in place for 3-6 months depending on the type of pessary used.
Is a pessary right for you?
Alongside pelvic floor rehabilitation, and other lifestyle adaptations, a pessary can be very effective in alleviating the symptoms of a pelvic organ prolapse. They can be worn all the time, or when you feel most symptomatic, for example, exercising. The Physiotherapist will discuss your personal needs and which pessary may be best for you.
Fitting the pessary
After you have attended for an initial pelvic health consultation, you will then need a full assessment and trial of fitting for your pessary. The Physiotherapist will discuss which pessary she feels is right for you given your symptoms. The pessary has to be fitted correctly and it may take several attepmts to get the right one.
After the first fitting you will need to return to clinic 2 weeks later to have the pessary checked. I then recommend a review in clinic around 3-6 months and longer intervals after that, as long as you continue to use the device. I will inform your GP that you have been assessed and fitted with a pessary to include this in your medical records. It is recommended that you change your pessary between 12 to 18 months.
Are there any side effects?
Pessaries are considered low risk medical devices, however there are some side effects that may occur. These include an increase in vaginal discharge for some and rarely bleeding. It is usually recommended for women who are menopausal to use local oestrogen cream prior to using a pessary which can improve the health of the vaginal tissues. Pessaries aren’t suitable for everyone, however around 85% of women will have success and find them helpful in improving their quality of life. For a small amount of women, a pessary wont be suitable.
If you are interested in chatting to see whether a pessary is right for you, why not book an enquiry call and we can discuss it.