When it comes to pelvic floor issues, many people are unaware of the simple, effective solutions available. Pessaries are one such solution—a small, non-surgical device that can provide significant relief for those experiencing pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence. If you’ve been experiencing symptoms like bladder leakage, heaviness in your pelvis, or discomfort during daily activities, a pessary might be the answer you’ve been looking for.
Let’s take a closer look at what pessaries are, how they work, and why they play such a crucial role in pelvic health care.
What is a Pessary?
A pessary is a small, flexible device made of medical-grade silicone that is inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs. It’s designed to help hold the bladder, uterus, or rectum in place, preventing them from descending and causing symptoms like pelvic pressure, urinary incontinence, or discomfort.
There are various types of pessaries available, including ring pessaries, cube pessaries, and Gellhorn pessaries, each designed to address different degrees and types of pelvic organ prolapse.
Who Can Benefit from a Pessary?
Pessaries are often recommended for people experiencing:
1. Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP)
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, shift from their normal position and press against the vaginal walls. This can lead to symptoms such as a heavy or bulging sensation in the pelvis, discomfort, or even difficulty with urination or bowel movements. A pessary provides support, helping to relieve these symptoms and allowing you to go about your day with greater comfort.
2. Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)
Stress urinary incontinence is leakage of urine during activities that increase pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. A pessary can help reduce this leakage by supporting the urethra and bladder neck, improving bladder control.
3. Postpartum Recovery
After childbirth, many women experience pelvic floor weakness, leading to prolapse or incontinence. A pessary can provide temporary support while the pelvic floor muscles are recovering, allowing new mothers to engage in activities without discomfort or leakage.
4. People Avoiding or Delaying Surgery
For those who are not ready for or want to avoid surgery, pessaries offer a non-invasive alternative to managing pelvic organ prolapse or incontinence. They are also an option for those who are in the process of preparing for surgery and need symptom relief in the meantime.
How Does a Pessary Work?
A pessary works by providing structural support to the pelvic organs, much like a splint supports a sprained ankle. When properly fitted, a pessary holds the pelvic organs in place, reducing the pressure on the vaginal walls and helping to alleviate symptoms of prolapse and incontinence.
The great thing about pessaries is that they are highly customisable. You can wear the pessary all day or remove it at night, depending on your comfort and needs. For many people, a pessary can be a long-term solution, while others may use it temporarily as they work on strengthening their pelvic floor muscles through targeted exercises.
The Benefits of Pessaries
Pessaries offer a range of benefits for those suffering from pelvic floor issues:
Non-Surgical: Pessaries provide an effective, non-invasive option for managing prolapse or incontinence without the need for surgery.
Customisable: With different types and sizes available, pessaries can be tailored to your specific needs, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Supportive: A pessary can provide immediate relief from symptoms, allowing you to regain confidence and enjoy everyday activities without discomfort or worry.
Considering a Pessary?
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence, a pessary may be the solution you need to regain control and comfort in your life. It’s important to consult with a pelvic health physiotherapist or gynaecologist for a pessary fitting and management. They will ensure the pessary is correctly sized and fitted for your individual needs and provide guidance on its use and care.
A pessary is a simple and effective tool that can help improve your quality of life. If you think a pessary might be right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss your options.
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