Pessary Placement
Pessary placement is a non-surgical treatment used to manage pelvic floor disorders like pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. It involves inserting a medical device, called a pessary, into the vagina to provide support and relieve symptoms. This article will discuss the purpose of pessary placement and the procedure involved. Pessary placement is a conservative option that helps support pelvic organs and improve symptoms associated with pelvic floor issues. The pessary, which is removable, is typically made of medical-grade silicone or plastic and comes in different shapes, such as a ring, cube, or donut. Once inserted into the vagina, the pessary supports prolapsed organs or helps control urinary incontinence.
About Pessary Placement
Pessary placement is a non-surgical solution used to manage pelvic floor disorders, such as pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Various types of pessaries are available to accommodate different anatomical needs and conditions, including:
Ring Pessaries: These circular pessaries provide support by encircling the cervix and are commonly used for mild to moderate pelvic organ prolapse.
Gellhorn Pessaries: Shaped like a knob, Gellhorn pessaries are solid and are used for more significant cases of uterine prolapse or cystocele.
Cube Pessaries: Cube-shaped pessaries offer support for uterine prolapse and stress urinary incontinence and are ideal for more severe conditions.
Donut Pessaries: These ring-like pessaries with a central opening are suitable for women with rectocele or enterocele, providing structural support.
The choice of pessary depends on individual anatomy, the severity of the pelvic floor disorder, and the patient’s comfort. A healthcare provider will assess and recommend the most appropriate pessary based on these factors.
Procedure of Pessary Placement
Evaluation and Assessment:
A healthcare provider will conduct a detailed pelvic examination to determine the correct pessary type and size for the patient’s condition.Insertion:
Using lubrication, the pessary is carefully inserted into the vagina. Some types, such as ring or cube pessaries, may need to be folded or compressed before insertion to ensure proper placement.Adjustment and Fitting:
Once inserted, the healthcare provider ensures the pessary fits comfortably and is positioned correctly. It should provide support without causing discomfort or obstruction.Instruction and Education:
Patients are given instructions on how to clean and care for the pessary and are informed about symptoms or complications to monitor, such as discomfort, vaginal discharge, or infection.Follow-up Visits:
Regular follow-up visits are necessary to ensure the pessary continues to work effectively. Adjustments can be made if necessary to address any issues or discomfort.
Pessary placement provides an effective, non-invasive treatment for managing pelvic floor disorders while allowing patients to avoid surgery.