Pessary

Overactive bladder and pelvic prolapse are conditions that many women deal with but are afraid to discuss with their doctor. Dr. Gandhi, of Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology, understands that many women are hesitant to share their urinary problems and conditions, but ensures his patients that there are ways to address the problems that are discreet and effective. One method available to help patients with pelvic prolapse and overactive bladder is using vaginal pessaries.

Torso of a young woman checking abdomen cellulite

A pessary is a device used in the vagina to support the pelvic organs. They are removable, and are made of a wide variety of materials, which may include plastic, rubber, and silicone. Common pessaries include the Gellhorn, ring, and donut. Pessaries should be fitted properly for each patient, so it is important to visit a qualified health care professional, such as Dr. Gandhi, to ensure proper fit and function of a vaginal pessary. They should be comfortable when inserted.

Pessaries are removable. They should be removed regularly for proper cleaning to ensure they are free from bacteria. Infections can occur if this is not done, so it is important for patients to follow a strict cleaning regimen of their pessaries. If patients are unable to remove the pessary on their own, or are not comfortable doing it by themselves, they can schedule regular visits with Dr. Gandhi to have them removed and cleaned as necessary. This is also a good time for a check-up and follow-up visit and examination to ensure that the pessary is working as expected.

There are often many inaccurate assumptions about pessaries, and Dr. Gandhi of Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology ensures that he properly educates his patients on the use and results that can be expected with pessaries. A pessary can be used very effectively for women young and old to treat pelvic prolapse and even urinary incontinence.

If you want to learn more about vaginal pessaries and are considering them as a solution to your incontinence or prolapse condition, contact our team today to schedule a consultation and examination appointment to seek the help you need to get back to your active lifestyle!

Sanjay Gandhi, M.D.

Sanjay Gandhi, M.D.
Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology

Conditions affecting the female pelvis are the focus at Partners in Pelvic Health North Shore Urogynecology. We provide effective solutions for these problems from our offices at Park City, Woodstock, and Lake Forest in Illinois.

Our team is headed by Sanjay Gandhi, MD, Urogynecologist. Dr. Gandhi’s specialized education included a residency in gynecology and obstetrics at Northwestern University and a three-year urogynecology fellowship. He is among a few in the country to pass the first examination in Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery (URPS) of The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He also teaches healthcare students.