The most common types of pessaries are the Gellhorn and the doughnut. A pessary is used to support areas of pelvic organ prolapse.
Your doctor will try to find a pessary that fits you. It should not cause any pain. You may need to try different shapes and sizes of pessaries to find one that fits you just right.
Your doctor will show you how to take out and clean the pessary and how to put it back into place. This should be done on a regular schedule. Your doctor may tell you to leave the pessary out for a specific length of time before putting it back in place. If it's hard for you to take out your pessary or to put it back into place, you can have it done at your doctor's office.
Current as of: August 2, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine Femi Olatunbosun MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology Kara L. Cadwallader MD - Family Medicine
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Femi Olatunbosun MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology & Kara L. Cadwallader MD - Family Medicine
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Femi Olatunbosun MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology & Kara L. Cadwallader MD - Family Medicine
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.