Prolapse and Pessary Fittings
Pelvic organ prolapse can occur in 50% of women who have had a vaginal birth. At Bloom, our Physiotherapists have all had extensive post-graduate training in the assessment and management of prolapse.
Pessaries, along with pelvic floor exercises, are a great way to conservatively manage a prolapse without having to undergo surgery.
Pelvic organ prolapse is when there is the downward descent or dropping of one or more of the pelvic organs (bladder, bowel or uterus) into the vagina. Prolapse is a very common pelvic problem and the severity of prolapse can vary greatly amongst women. Typical symptoms of prolapse include vaginal heaviness, bulging or a dragging sensation as well as other problems such as difficulty emptying your bladder and bowel or pain with sexual intercourse. Some people can have a prolapse and have no symptoms, but may be able to see a bulge when looking.
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Whilst prolapse is common, it can be very worrisome when experienced. Thankfully, our team at Bloom can help you conservatively manage a prolapse and help improve your symptoms. We also work closely with Gynaecologists for those who may undergo prolapse repair surgeries.
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What is a pessary?​
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A vaginal pessary is a soft, removable device that is made of high grade medical silicone that provides structural support to the pelvic organs. It can help to relieve symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, including vaginal heaviness, bulging or dragging.
There are different shapes and sizes of vaginal pessaries and an individual assessment is required prior to being prescribed a pessary. Sometimes you may need to try a few different pessaries before finding the one that fits best and provides the right amount of support.
Interested in a pessary fitting?
Click on the "Book Now" button and select an Initial Continence & Pelvic Health consultation. Read more about our pessary fitting process below!​​
Our pessary fitting process: What to expect?
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your first appointment involves a comprehensive pelvic health assessment with one of our physiotherapists. We will talk through your symptoms, medical history and how your condition is affecting your daily life. We will explain the benefits of using a pessary along with any potential side effects, so you can make an informed choice about whether the use of a pessary is appropriate for you. With your consent, an internal vaginal examination may be performed to assess pelvic floor muscle function and check the severity of the prolapse, helping guide whether a pessary is appropriate for you and which type may suit you best.
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Step 2: Pessary Fitting Appointment
If a pessary is recommended, we will arrange a fitting appointment. During this session, your physiotherapist will carefully insert the pessary and assess how well it supports the pelvic organs while ensuring it is comfortable for you.
You will also be shown how to remove and re-insert the pessary yourself (if appropriate), so you can confidently manage it at home. In some cases, different pessary shapes or sizes may be trialled to find the most comfortable and effective fit.
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Step 3: Pessary Review Appointment
A follow-up appointment is then scheduled about two weeks after your pessary fitting. During this visit, your physiotherapist will ensure the pessary remains comfortable, is positioned correctly and that your vaginal tissue health is maintained. We will also review your symptoms to see how well the pessary is helping and discuss any adjustments needed to maximise your comfort and support.