If you’ve been fitted with a pessary, it’s completely normal to feel anxious about removing it. Many women worry that the process will be painful, complicated, or unsafe. In reality, pessary removal is often much simpler and gentler than expected. With the right guidance, awareness, and technique, most women can safely remove their pessary at home.

Understanding the Pessary and Its Purpose

A pessary is a medical device used as a non-surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. It supports the pelvic organs and helps reduce symptoms such as urinary leakage, pelvic pressure, and a sensation of heaviness.

For many women, pessaries are life-changing—offering symptom relief without surgery. Still, hesitation around removal is common. These concerns often come from fear of pain, uncertainty about anatomy, or worry that the pessary might be stuck.

As Dr. Noor explains, these fears are usually unnecessary. Most challenges with removal occur when the pessary is pulled at the wrong angle or without adequate relaxation. Once the proper technique is understood, removal is typically quick, safe, and minimally uncomfortable.

Preparing for Pessary Removal

A few simple steps can make removal smoother and more comfortable.

Step 1: Clean Your Hands

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling the pessary. Sterile gloves are not necessary. Clean hands are sufficient to maintain hygiene and reduce infection risk.

Step 2: Find a Comfortable Position

Choose a position that allows easy access and promotes relaxation. Some women prefer lying down, others sitting on the toilet, or standing with one leg elevated on a stool. The best position is the one that helps your pelvic floor stay relaxed.

Step 3: Consider Lubrication

If you notice dryness or mild resistance, a small amount of water-based lubricant can help the pessary slide out more easily. Avoid oil-based or silicone-based lubricants, as these can damage the device.

Step 4: Relax Your Pelvic Floor

Relaxation is essential. Anxiety and muscle tension can make removal more difficult. Take slow, deep breaths and allow your pelvic muscles to soften. A relaxed pelvic floor makes the process significantly easier and more comfortable.

Step-by-Step Pessary Removal

Dr. Noor recommends a gentle, stepwise approach to minimize discomfort and protect vaginal tissue.

Step 1: Locate the Edge of the Pessary

Using a clean finger, locate the edge of the pessary. Ring pessaries are circular and often have a larger opening or support structure. Familiarizing yourself with its shape helps guide removal.

Step 2: Hook Your Finger Into the Ring

Gently place your index finger into the larger opening of the pessary, creating a hook. This provides better control and reduces the risk of sudden movement. Avoid pulling straight out without angling.

Step 3: Pull Downward and Forward

Instead of pulling directly outward, angle your finger downward and forward. This allows the pessary to tilt and partially collapse, making it easier to remove. Light bearing down—similar to initiating a bowel movement—may also help guide the device.

Step 4: Maintain Gentle, Steady Traction

Use slow, consistent pressure. Avoid sudden or forceful pulling, which can cause discomfort or an abrupt release. Some women find it helpful to gently fold the pessary using their fingers while maintaining steady traction.

Step 5: Follow the Natural Curve

The pessary should follow the natural curve of the vaginal canal. When angled correctly and removed with patience, it should slide out smoothly. If needed, a small amount of lubricant around the edge can help.

After Removing Your Pessary

Caring for the pessary and your vaginal tissue after removal is important.

Clean the pessary: Wash it with mild soap and warm water, then dry it thoroughly. Inspect for cracks or signs of wear.
Check your vaginal area: Watch for irritation, bleeding, or unusual discharge. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice anything concerning.
Allow rest if needed: If there is mild irritation, taking a short break from pessary use can allow tissues to recover.

When Not to Remove a Pessary Yourself

While most women can safely remove a pessary at home, self-removal may not be appropriate in certain situations:

Pregnancy: Always consult your healthcare provider.
Difficulty locating or removing the pessary: If it does not move easily, seek professional assistance.
Pain or bleeding: Sharp pain or significant bleeding should be evaluated promptly.
Certain pessary types: Devices such as cube or Gellhorn pessaries often require clinician removal. Follow your provider’s instructions.

Pro Tip from Dr. Noor

For women who have difficulty locating the edge of the pessary, a small string or cord may be attached so it rests just outside the vaginal opening. This can make removal easier and less stressful. Always discuss this option with your healthcare provider before use.

Key Tips for Safe Removal

Take your time—slow, controlled movements reduce discomfort
Breathe normally to avoid pelvic floor tension
Use water-based lubricant if needed
Stay relaxed—anxiety can make removal harder
Know when to seek help if pain, bleeding, or difficulty occurs

Empower Yourself With Proper Care

Removing a pessary does not have to be painful or intimidating. With clean hands, a comfortable position, relaxation, proper angling, and gentle traction, most women can remove their pessary safely and confidently.

Understanding how to care for your pessary allows you to manage pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence effectively while protecting vaginal health. Pelvic health deserves attention at every stage of life, and informed care makes a meaningful difference.

If you ever experience difficulty, pain, or uncertainty, reach out to a healthcare professional. With the right guidance, pessary use can remain a safe, comfortable, and empowering part of your pelvic health care.

Safe, trauma-free pessary management is possible—with the right knowledge, patience, and support.

How to Safely Remove Your Pessary: A Step-by-Step Guide