Pessary
Date issued: July 2026
Review date: July 2028
Leaflet section: Gynaecology
PDF: Pessary [pdf] 138KB
Uro-gynaecology
What is a pessary?
A vaginal pessary is made from surgical grade silicone and is an inert device that is placed in the vagina to help symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. The devices come in all shapes and sizes. The pessary you have been fitted with will be specific for you.
Why have I been fitted with a pessary?
Pessary management for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) can improve the symptoms associated with it, and can include the following:
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A feeling of ‘something coming down’
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A lump
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Urinary frequency and urinary leakage
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A dragging discomfort in the low back
A pessary is considered a ‘safer’ option than surgery, but there may be many reasons why you haven’t opted for surgery, and these will have been discussed with the specialist.
How do I look after my pessary?
It is very important to look after the vaginal skin. Vaginal hormone therapy is recommended alongside pessary management for POP. Speak to your GP about vaginal oestrogen or non-oestrogen vaginal moisturiser. Avoid constipation. If you suffer with constipation, ask your GP about getting some help to relieve it. Your pessary will be routinely changed at approximately 3-6 monthly intervals as well.
If any of the following occur:
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Pessary falls out
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Get vaginal bleeding
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Offensive smelling discharge
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Pessary comes down/moved
When to seek urgent/emergency help
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If you are unable to sit down due to the pessary
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Pain
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If you are unable to pass urine
Please ring:
Uro-gynae nursing team secretary
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Monday to Friday: 8:30am to 4pm
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01752 432628 (select option 2, option 3 again, then option 7)
Out of hours:
01752 430026 (Ocean Suite gynaecology ward)
Please note this is an appointment only service
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
