A vaginal ring pessary is a removable support device that can help ease symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse by supporting the vaginal walls and the organs that may have dropped into the vaginal canal.

Key takeaways

A ring pessary can support pelvic organs such as the bladder or bowel when pelvic floor muscles are weak.
It can be a practical alternative to surgery, or used alongside pelvic floor physiotherapy, for the right patient.
Pessaries need routine replacement, often every 3 to 6 months, to help reduce infection risk and maintain comfort.

What a pessary is

A pessary is a medical device placed in the vagina to provide internal support. In everyday terms, it is a support insert that helps hold things in a better position.

Ready Health provides replacement services for existing vaginal ring pessaries. A ring pessary is designed to sit comfortably in place, and when it fits correctly, it should not be noticeable during normal daily activities.

A pessary is not permanent. It is a removable option that is used to manage symptoms, particularly when a woman wants a non surgical approach, or when symptoms need support while other treatments are being used.

What pelvic organ prolapse means

Pelvic organ prolapse happens when pelvic floor muscles become weaker and pelvic organs shift downwards. Some women notice a heavy sensation, discomfort, or a feeling of something bulging in the vagina.

Ready Health describes a common scenario as the bladder or bowel dropping into the vaginal canal. This can feel alarming, but it is relatively common and often manageable with the right support and follow up.

Prolapse can be linked with life stages and factors that place extra strain on the pelvic floor. These can include pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause.

How a ring pessary helps with prolapse symptoms

A ring pessary works by giving physical support inside the vagina. That support can help reduce the feeling of pressure and help you feel more comfortable in daily life.

Some women use a pessary to stay active with fewer symptoms. Others use it as a way to delay or avoid surgery, or as a supportive step while working on pelvic floor strength.

A pessary is not a cure for pelvic floor weakness. It is a management tool. For many women, symptom relief and confidence are the biggest benefits, especially when fitted and maintained properly.

Who a pessary may be suitable for

A ring pessary may be considered when pelvic floor muscles are weak and prolapse symptoms are present. Ready Health highlights that this can be more common in women who:

are pregnant
have recently or previously given birth
are going through the menopause
are overweight or obese
smoke
lift weights

A pessary can also be used for certain types of incontinence. If your symptoms include bladder leakage, urgency, or discomfort, a clinician can help assess whether a pessary is relevant, or whether another approach is more suitable.

What to expect at a pessary replacement appointment

Ready Health replaces existing vaginal ring pessaries only, and does not fit new pessaries. You need to know your current pessary size before your appointment, because the replacement is like for like.

During a replacement, your clinician will discuss how you have been getting on and any issues you have noticed. You will be placed in a comfortable position, then the pessary is removed and replaced with a new one.

The clinician checks comfort and positioning throughout. A well fitted pessary should sit correctly and should not be noticeable once in place.

Ready Health’s appointments are typically around 20 to 30 minutes. Most women experience mild, brief discomfort rather than significant pain.

How often does a pessary need replacing?

Ring pessaries need routine replacement to help reduce infection risk and to make sure the pessary remains comfortably fitted.

Ready Health advises that most ring pessaries are replaced every 3 to 6 months. Some may need replacing sooner if discomfort develops.

If you notice new discomfort, pain, or bleeding, it is sensible to seek advice rather than waiting for the next planned change. Comfort is a useful signal, and a pessary that no longer feels right should be reviewed.

Risks and side effects to understand

Many women use pessaries safely, but it is still important to know what can happen.

Ready Health notes slight risks that can include:

difficulty weeing or pooing
pain
bleeding in the vagina

These issues do not automatically mean you must stop using a pessary, but they should be discussed with a clinician. A change in fit, an underlying irritation, or timing of replacement can all make a difference.

The most important safety point is ongoing maintenance. Pessaries should not be left without routine replacement, as this increases the risk of infection and discomfort.

When to seek medical advice

It is worth seeking support if you:

feel persistent pelvic pressure or a bulge sensation
have pain, bleeding, or unusual discharge
find it difficult to pass urine or open your bowels
notice the pessary feels uncomfortable or does not seem to sit properly
are unsure whether your symptoms are prolapse, incontinence, or another issue

If you feel suddenly unwell, have severe pain, or are worried about heavy bleeding, you should seek urgent medical advice.

How Ready Health can help

Ready Health offers a dedicated pessary replacement service for existing vaginal ring pessaries. The focus is on gentle, professional care that supports comfort and confidence in daily life.

Appointments include discussion of how you are getting on with your current pessary, removal and replacement, and checks to confirm the pessary sits correctly. You can also schedule your next replacement in advance, which helps keep ongoing care straightforward.

FAQs

What is a ring pessary used for?

A ring pessary is used to support pelvic organs and help manage symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse. It may also help some women with certain types of incontinence.

Will I feel a pessary once it is in place?

A well fitted ring pessary should not be noticeable during normal daily life. If you can feel it, or it becomes uncomfortable, it should be reviewed.

Does Ready Health fit new pessaries?

Ready Health provides replacement services for existing vaginal ring pessaries only. You need to know your current pessary size before your appointment.

How often should a ring pessary be changed?

Most ring pessaries need replacing every 3 to 6 months. You may need it changed sooner if you experience discomfort.

Is a pessary an alternative to surgery?

It can be. Ready Health notes that a ring pessary can be a great alternative to surgical intervention, or used alongside pelvic floor physiotherapy, depending on your situation.

What side effects should I watch out for?

Possible issues include difficulty weeing or pooing, pain, and vaginal bleeding. If these occur, seek advice rather than waiting until the next routine replacement.

What should I do if my pessary becomes uncomfortable?

Do not ignore it. Discomfort can indicate a fit issue or irritation. Book a review or replacement, and avoid waiting if symptoms are worsening.

What is a pessary and how does it help women with pelvic organ prolapse?