A simple device that can make a big difference for prolapse and incontinence.
If you’ve heard of a pelvic pessary but aren’t sure what it is or whether it could help you, here’s what you need to know - explained in plain language.
What is a pelvic pessary?
A pessary is a small medical device placed inside the vagina to support the pelvic organs. Most are made of silicone (sometimes rubber or plastic) and come in different shapes and sizes to suit individual needs.
Think of it like an internal “brace”—it helps hold things in a more supported position.
When is a pelvic pessary used?
Pessaries are most commonly used for:
Pelvic organ prolapse – when the bladder, uterus, or rectum drop down due to weakened pelvic floor support.
Stress urinary incontinence – to help reduce leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercising.
They can be a temporary or long-term solution. Some people use them while awaiting surgery, others instead of surgery, and some just for certain activities.
How does a pelvic pessary work?
By sitting inside the vagina, the pessary provides gentle support to the organs that have shifted. This can relieve symptoms like heaviness, bulging, or leakage.
Pessaries can be:
Removable or clinician-managed – Some women take them out and clean them themselves, while others prefer their healthcare provider to manage this.
Non-surgical and reversible – Many people find them helpful for managing prolapse or incontinence without committing to surgery.
Can a pelvic pessary fix a prolapse?
Sometimes, yes. Certain causes of prolapse—like a widened vaginal entrance from childbirth—can improve with pessary use, reducing how much the prolapse drops. This can make symptoms so minimal that you may not need the pessary anymore.
But here’s the key: pessaries work best alongside pelvic floor muscle training and strategies to manage risk factors like constipation and straining.
A pelvic floor physiotherapist can assess whether you’re a good candidate for a temporary pessary or if you’ll need it long term. In some cases, surgery may still be the better option.
Why talk to a pelvic health physio?
Prolapse management isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your physio can help you:
- Choose the right pessary type and size
- Learn how to manage it safely
- Combine pessary use with exercises and lifestyle changes for the best results
References:
Other Blogs in the Hypermobility Series
Deep dive into education written by our pelvic physiotherapist, Courtney, all about hypermobility – including symptoms across a range of pelvic health areas, treatment options for hypermobile patients & emerging research in the hypermobility space.
Pelvic Pessary: What It Is and How It Helps
Hypermobility and Prolapse: What’s the Connection?
