Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition many women face, particularly as they age or after childbirth. For active women, dealing with prolapse can be challenging, but a pessary—a small, flexible device inserted into the vagina—can be a game-changer. Here’s how a pessary can help active women maintain their lifestyle while managing prolapse.
What Is a Pessary, and How Does It Work?
A pessary is a device typically made of silicone that is inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs, which may include the bladder, uterus, or rectum. When these organs prolapse, they can descend into or outside of the vaginal canal, leading to discomfort, urinary issues, or even incontinence. The pessary works by providing mechanical support, lifting the prolapsed organs back into place and reducing symptom
Benefits of Using a Pessary for Active Women
For women who lead an active lifestyle, a pessary can offer several key benefits:
1. Maintains Activity Levels With the right fit, a pessary allows women to continue their exercise routines without the fear of worsening prolapse symptoms. Many women find that they can engage in activities like running, yoga, or weightlifting more comfortably and with greater confidence
2. Non-Surgical Solution: A pessary is a non-invasive alternative to surgery, offering a conservative treatment option that doesn’t require downtime. This is particularly appealing to women who want to avoid or delay surgery
3. Supports Pelvic Floor Exercises By reducing the symptoms of prolapse, a pessary can make it easier to perform pelvic floor exercises effectively. These exercises are crucial for strengthening the pelvic muscles, which can help in managing prolapse in the long term
Types of Pessaries and Choosing the Right One
There are various types of pessaries available, each designed for different severities of prolapse and personal needs. For instance, a ring pessary is commonly used for mild prolapse and can be suitable for women who are sexually active, while more complex designs like the Gellhorn pessary are used for more advanced prolapse but might be more challenging to insert and remove.
The fitting process is essential to ensure comfort and effectiveness. A healthcare provider will assess your prolapse and try different sizes and types of pessaries to find the best fit. You should feel comfortable and not be aware of the pessary during regular activities.
Considerations for Physical Activity
When using a pessary, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Fit & Comfort: It’s vital that the pessary fits well; otherwise, it might move or cause discomfort during high-impact activities. If a pessary doesn’t fit correctly, it could even slip out during exercise, so regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are crucial
Care & Maintenance: Depending on the type of pessary, it may need to be removed and cleaned regularly. Your provider will give you specific instructions on how to care for your pessary, which is essential for preventing infections or other complications
How to Get Started with a Pessary
If you’re considering a pessary, the first step is to consult with a pelvic floor physical therapist or gynecologist. In some places, including Durham, NC, pelvic floor physical therapists may be able to fit a pessary without a doctor’s referral. During your appointment, the specialist will help you find the right type and size, ensuring it’s comfortable and effective for your level of activity.
Conclusion
For active women dealing with prolapse, a pessary can be a valuable tool to maintain an active lifestyle without compromising on comfort or safety. With the right support and guidance from a healthcare provider, you can find a pessary that fits your needs and keeps you moving.
If you’re in Durham, NC, and interested in learning more about pessary fittings or pelvic floor physical therapy, Functional Phyzio PT can provide personalized care tailored to your lifestyle. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
