Pessary Insertion
If you suffer from pelvic organ prolapse, or stress incontinence, your doctor may recommend the use of a pessary. The muscles of the pelvic floor and other supporting tissues hold your bladder, uterus, and rectum in place. If these muscles and tissues weaken, your organs may shift out of their correct position resulting in pelvic organ prolapse. A pessary is a device you can insert into your vagina to support and lessen the stress on your bladder and other pelvic organs. To insert a ring with knob pessary, fold it in half. Place a small amount of lubricant on the end without the knob. Use your fingers to spread the labia. Carefully insert the pessary into the vagina as far as possible. Use your index finger to rotate the knobbed end of the pessary upward. You should not feel it once it is in the correct position. You may need to try several sizes and styles to ensure a proper fit. Because even the best fitting pessary may cause irritation, your doctor will want to check you every three to six months.