What Is a Pessary, and How Does It Work?

What Is a Pessary, and How Does It Work?

As women’s health physical therapists, we often work with women experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, prolapse, or stress urinary incontinence. One tool that can make a significant difference in symptom management is a pessary—but many women have never heard of it or don’t fully understand how it works. Let’s break it down.

What Is a Pessary?

A pessary is a small, removable medical device designed to support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. It is placed inside the vagina to help manage conditions like:

• Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) – when the bladder, uterus, or rectum shifts downward due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
• Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) – leakage that occurs with activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercise.
• Postpartum pelvic floor weakness – a pessary can provide temporary support after childbirth.

Pessaries come in different shapes and sizes, including ring, donut, and cube designs, depending on the level of support needed.

How Does a Pessary Work?

A pessary works by providing structural support to the vaginal walls and pelvic organs. This helps lift and reposition the bladder, uterus, or rectum to reduce symptoms like:

✅ A heavy or bulging sensation in the pelvis
✅ Urinary leakage with movement or exertion
✅ Discomfort from prolapse
✅ Difficulty with bladder emptying

For women who are not ready for surgery or looking for a non-invasive option, a pessary can be a game-changer.

Getting the Right Fit

A pessary should be custom-fitted by a healthcare provider, such as a women’s health physical therapist or gynecologist. During a pessary fitting, we assess your pelvic floor strength, prolapse severity, and comfort level to determine the best type and size.

Once fitted, many women report an immediate improvement in symptoms, allowing them to move, exercise, and go about daily life with less discomfort and worry.

Taking Care of Your Pessary

A pessary is easy to manage with proper care. Most women can learn to remove, clean, and reinsert their pessary on their own, while others may need occasional check-ups for adjustments. Regular cleaning and monitoring help prevent infections or irritation.

Is a Pessary Right for You?

If you struggle with pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence, or pelvic discomfort, a pessary could be a simple, effective solution. At PhysioFit of North Carolina, we offer pessary fittings and pelvic floor therapy to help you regain comfort and confidence.

📅 Book a consultation today to learn if a pessary is the right choice for you!