Pelvic Organ Prolapse and the Pessary: A Non-Surgical Support Option
If you’ve been diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse (POP), it can feel overwhelming—especially when it seems like your only options are surgery or living with discomfort. While surgery may be right for some, it's not the only path. One of the most under-discussed yet effective options? The pessary.
I often hear from clients that they’ve never been told about this option—or that it was presented as a temporary solution "until you’re ready for surgery." But a pessary can be a long-term, empowering choice for women of all ages and activity levels.
What Is a Pessary?
A pessary is a small, flexible medical device (usually made of silicone or plastic) that’s inserted into the vagina to help support the pelvic organs. Think of it as a sports bra for your pelvic floor—helping to reduce symptoms like heaviness, pressure, or bulging.
There are many types and sizes, with the ring pessary being one of the most common. Your provider can help you find the right one for your body and needs.
Who Can Use a Pessary?
A pessary may be right for you if:
You feel relief from prolapse symptoms when it’s in place
You can learn to manage it on your own (insertion, removal, cleaning)
You’re able to use local vaginal estrogen if post-menopausal or breastfeeding
You want a non-surgical, low-risk option to help manage prolapse
You’re any age—this isn’t just for older women!
Why Consider a Pessary?
Studies show that up to 40% of women experience symptom relief with conservative options like pelvic floor physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and pessary use. In fact, combining a pessary with pelvic floor muscle training can significantly reduce POP severity and improve quality of life.
One case study even showed a complete reversal of significant prolapse in just 8 months with consistent pelvic floor strengthening and pessary use.
But many women aren’t told this. That’s because pessaries are often associated with frail, elderly patients who can’t undergo surgery—which creates the myth that they don’t work for younger, active women.
That’s simply not true.
The Role of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
In the U.S., physical therapists don’t fit pessaries—but we play a vital role in your care:
We help you understand whether a pessary might be a good fit
We teach you how to move in ways that minimize pressure on your pelvic organs
We guide you through strengthening exercises that support prolapse recovery and prevention
We help you return to activities like running, jumping, or lifting—with or without a pessary
A Client’s Story
“After a few sessions with Allison, consistent homework on my end, and a pessary to support my body, I’m now leak-free. I can even run—hard—and jump on a trampoline with my kids. I didn’t realize how much it was affecting me until it wasn’t a problem anymore.”
— J.F., Client