Pelvic health concerns affect women of all ages, yet many live with symptoms quietly, unsure of what is normal or what options exist. Conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse, stress urinary incontinence, and pelvic floor weakness are common—but they are not problems women simply have to tolerate.

One effective, non-surgical option that often goes overlooked is the pessary. When used correctly, a pessary can provide meaningful symptom relief and restore daily comfort without surgery.

I’m Dr. Nabila Noor, a board-certified, fellowship-trained urogynecologist and pelvic reconstructive surgeon. In my practice, I regularly see how pessaries can dramatically improve quality of life. My goal is to educate, reduce fear and confusion, and help women understand the full range of options available for pelvic health.

This article explains what a pessary is, who may benefit from one, the different types available, common misconceptions, and why pessaries remain one of my preferred non-surgical tools.

What Is a Pessary?

A pessary is a small, soft silicone device placed inside the vagina to support pelvic organs. It helps hold the bladder, uterus, or rectum in their proper position.

I often describe a pessary as a “sports bra for the pelvic floor.” Just as a sports bra provides support without surgery, a pessary offers internal support without incisions or recovery time.

Pessaries are commonly used to help manage:

Pelvic organ prolapse
Stress urinary incontinence
Postpartum pelvic floor weakness
Bladder leakage during activity
Vaginal pressure, bulging, or discomfort

For women who are not ready for surgery—or who prefer to avoid it altogether—pessaries provide a safe, effective, and reversible option.

Who Can Benefit from a Pessary?

Pessaries are appropriate for women at many stages of life. They are not limited to older patients.

Younger women may benefit from a pessary after childbirth, during high-impact exercise, or when experiencing early prolapse or stress incontinence. Older women may choose a pessary when surgery is not desired or medically advisable.

I once cared for a woman in her sixties who had lived with prolapse for years but delayed care due to embarrassment and competing responsibilities. Surgery was not an option for her. When we fitted her with a pessary, she stood up and immediately felt the pressure and bulge disappear. Her relief was instant—and deeply emotional. Experiences like this highlight how impactful the right support can be.

Types of Pessaries

Pessaries come in many shapes and sizes. The best option depends on anatomy, symptom severity, and individual goals.

Some commonly used types include:

Ring Pessary with Support

Soft and flexible
Easy to insert and remove
Often ideal for mild to moderate prolapse
Frequently chosen by women who prefer to manage removal themselves

Yeast infections usually have little to no odor, or a mild yeasty smell. This lack of odor helps distinguish them from bacterial vaginosis.

Gellhorn Pessary

Disc-shaped with a central stem
Provides stronger support for more advanced prolapse
Typically managed with medical follow-up rather than self-removal

Incontinence Pessaries

Designed to support the urethra
Often include a small knob that helps prevent leakage
Helpful for women who leak with coughing, laughing, or exercise

There are many additional designs, and fitting is highly individualized. Proper selection is essential for comfort and effectiveness.

How the Right Pessary Is Chosen

Pessary fitting is not one-size-fits-all. A trained provider evaluates vaginal length, width, degree of prolapse, and the presence of urinary symptoms to determine the best option.

Even when a urogynecologist is not available, experienced OB/GYNs and pelvic floor physical therapists can assist with fitting. A pessary that fits correctly should stay in place, provide support, and remain comfortable during daily activities.

An ill-fitting pessary may cause irritation or fail to relieve symptoms, which is why professional guidance is important.

Common Myths About Pessaries

Can a pessary get lost inside the body?
No. The vagina is a closed space. A properly fitted pessary cannot travel beyond it.

Does wearing a pessary hurt?
A pessary should not be painful. Most women are simply aware of it, similar to a tampon. Discomfort usually means the size or type needs adjustment or that vaginal tissue needs additional support.

Are pessaries only for older women?
No. Women of all ages—including postpartum patients—can benefit.

Is a pessary permanent?
No. Pessaries are fully reversible. Some women use them temporarily, others long-term. The choice is entirely individualized.

Why I Often Recommend Pessaries

Pessaries offer several meaningful advantages:

Immediate symptom relief
No surgery, anesthesia, or recovery time
Safe for long-term use in appropriate patients
No medications or hormones required
Flexibility and patient control
No disruption to daily routines

While surgery may be the right solution for some women, a pessary often provides effective support without the risks or downtime of an operation.

When Professional Guidance Matters

Pessaries should always be fitted and monitored by a healthcare professional. Women experiencing pain, urinary difficulty, vaginal irritation, or unresolved symptoms should seek evaluation before using one.

Pelvic floor physical therapists can also assess muscle tone and help determine whether a pessary, exercises, or a combination of approaches is most appropriate.

Pelvic Health at Every Stage of Life

Pelvic floor health matters throughout life. Symptoms are common, but they are not something women need to accept or normalize. With education, guidance, and the right tools, improvement is achievable at any age

Pessaries are a powerful, non-surgical option for managing pelvic floor symptoms. They offer support, symptom relief, and flexibility—while allowing women to remain active and in control of their care.

If pelvic pressure, prolapse, or leakage is affecting your quality of life, professional evaluation can help determine whether a pessary is right for you. With the right support, meaningful improvement is possible.

Your pelvic health deserves thoughtful, informed care and effective solutions exist.

Everything You Need to Know About Pessaries: A Non-Surgical Solution for Pelvic Health