Description
RING PESSARY DESCRIPTION
A silicone ring pessary, with a steel spring filling that allows it to keep its shape. The pelvic floor serves as a support for the pessary itself. Suitable for use in patients with complaints of mild genital prolapse and urinary incontinence – particularly milder forms of stress incontinence.
RING PESSARY SIZES
Sizes range from 50-100mm, in 5mm increments. The ring pessary should be positioned similar to a contraceptive diaphragm and the ring with the smallest diameter that supports the pelvis should be prescribed. To determine the best ring pessary size for the patient, the length of the vaginal vault is measured with the examining finger and the size of the pessary is approximated to your fingers.
The following steps should be taken:
- Measure the distance from the osterior fornix to the pubic notch and note where that is on your finger.
- To insert the ring pessary, fold it so that the arc points downward and is directed past the cervix into the posterior fornix. It will spring open once released.
- A one-quarter turn of this pessary is recommended to prevent it from folding and being expelled. The examining finger should be able to sweep between the vaginal wall and the ring pessary. If there is too much or too little space the pessary must be removed and another size inserted.
- After fitting the ring pessary, the patient should stand up and bear down. The pessary should not be so loose that it can be expelled nor should it be too tight that it causes any discomfort.
The success of the ring pessary therapy will depend on the proper placement, the right size and possibly on a regular change and re-insertion.
RING PESSARY FAQs
How does a ring pessary work?
Essentially, a vaginal ring pessary is a small circle-shaped device, which can be inserted into the vagina. The device itself is made from soft silicone and therefore causes no harm or discomfort for the patient. But, by successfully providing support to the pelvic area, it can help to relieve the symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and stress-induced incontinence.
Ring pessaries are typically recommended as the first treatment for prolapse. However, other types of pessary are available (e.g. club, cube etc.), and a vaginal examination will be necessary to both establish the severity of the patient’s condition and the best type for their needs.
An examination will also be required to establish the most appropriate ring pessary size. But once a size has been established, the pessary can be easily inserted or removed by the patient – without the help of a doctor.
How often should a ring pessary be changed?
Ring pessaries are a safe, long-term treatment. However, they do need to be changed approximately once every 4-6 months. The patient should arrange repeat appointments, during which the pessary can be replaced and the doctor can check for any problems (e.g. bleeding, infection, ulcers etc.).
Where can I buy a vaginal ring pessary?
As a UK leading supplier of clinical urology and urogynaecology products, we stock a diverse range of pessaries, including vaginal ring pessaries that are suitable for treating prolapse and incontinence.
These are manufactured to the highest standards of safety and quality – made from long-lasting skin-friendly silicone – and come in a comprehensive range of ring pessary sizes. Yet they’re still available for a competitive price and, if ordered before 12pm, can be delivered the next day.
Here at Digitimer, we are renowned for our expertise in this area and have exceptional knowledge of our products. We can provide detailed guides, research and information on all aspects of pessary therapy, including fitting guides and shape recommendations. And if you would like advice on the best pessary type or ring pessary sizes for your requirements, please feel free to get in touch.
DIGITAL UROLOGY BROCHURE
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