Caring for Your Pessary: Tips and Best Practices for Long-Term Comfort

Pessary Fitting Sherwood Park

Caring for Your Pessary: Tips and Best Practices for Long-Term Comfort

Caring for your pessary doesn’t have to be daunting! Whether you’re new to using one or have been managing it for a while, we’re here to help. Our pessary fitting in Sherwood Park helps ensure that you’re set up for success from the very start. With a few simple tips and best practices from our experienced physiotherapists, you can keep your pessary comfortable and effective in the long term. After all, your comfort is our priority, and with the right care, your pessary can make a world of difference in your daily life.

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Understanding Your Pessary

A pessary is a small, removable device that’s placed inside the vagina to support pelvic organs. It’s often used to manage conditions like pelvic floor dysfunction. The key to a positive experience with your pessary is ensuring it fits well and is properly cared for. That’s where our pessary fitting in Sherwood Park comes into play. We make sure that your pessary fits comfortably, but the long-term comfort depends on how well you maintain it.

Daily Care Tips for Your Pessary:

Taking care of your pessary is crucial to its effectiveness and your comfort. Let’s dive into some key tips to keep things running smoothly!

1. Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your pessary clean is one of the most important steps in maintaining its lifespan and reducing the risk of infections. Here’s how our physiotherapists recommend you do it:
  • Mild Soap and Water: After removing your pessary, gently wash it using soft soap and warm water. We suggest avoiding harsh chemicals or scented soaps, as these can irritate your vaginal tissues.
  • Rinse Thoroughly: Be sure to rinse the pessary thoroughly to remove any soap residue which could cause irritation or discomfort.
  • Dry Properly: After cleaning, let the pessary air dry completely before reinserting it. This helps prevent any moisture-related issues.
2. Regular Check-ups
Even if everything feels just fine, regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential. These check-ups allow us to:
  • Ensure Proper Fit: The fit of your pessary may need to be adjusted over time, especially if you’ve had changes in weight, pelvic surgeries, or other significant life events.
  • Inspect for Wear and Tear: Pessaries can wear out over time, so our team can check for any cracks, discoloration, or signs of wear and determine if a replacement is needed.
  • Monitor Your Vaginal Health: Regular visits also allow us to check for any signs of irritation, infection, or other complications.
  • 3. Monitoring for Discomfort
    Tuning in to how your pessary feels is key. If you start noticing any new symptoms—like increased pressure, changes in how you go to the bathroom, or any discomfort—it’s definitely worth bringing up with your healthcare provider. Sometimes, just a minor adjustment in the pessary’s position or size can make a world of difference in your comfort and how well it works. While pessaries are generally comfortable, you should be aware of any signs of pain or unusual symptoms:
    • Bleeding: If you notice any spotting or bleeding that’s not related to your period, it might be a sign of irritation or a small injury. Don’t hesitate to get your healthcare provider to check it out.
    • Trouble with Bowel Movements: If you’re having a tough time passing stool or feel constipated, your pessary could be putting pressure on your rectum. This might mean it’s too big or not positioned correctly.
    • Frequent Urination or Leaks: If you suddenly need to pee more often or start having leaks, your pessary might be pressing on your bladder. This could be a sign that it needs a size or placement adjustment.
    • Feeling of Slippage: If it feels like your pessary is moving around or slipping down, it might not be positioned right or could be the wrong size. This can cause discomfort and make the pessary less effective.
    • Pelvic Pain: Any ongoing or sharp pain in your pelvic area could mean the pessary is putting pressure on something it shouldn’t. Definitely get in touch with our physiotherapists if this happens.
    4. Proper Insertion and Removal

    Getting comfortable with inserting and removing your pessary is key to long-term success. If you’re not confident in your technique, ask our physiotherapists for guidance. Here are some tips:

    • Gentle Insertion: Always use a water-based lubricant during insertion to minimize friction and prevent irritation.
    • Slow Removal: When removing the pessary, take your time and be gentle to avoid discomfort or injury.
    5. Lubrication
    Lubrication is essential for both comfort and the longevity of your pessary. When inserting your pessary, always use a water-based lubricant. These are safe to use with most pessaries and help reduce friction during pessary insertion. It’s best to avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can degrade the material of the pessary, making it less effective and potentially causing discomfort.
    6. Rest Periods

    Your vaginal tissues need time to rest and recover. Our physiotherapists will guide you on how often to remove your pessary to give your body a break. Typically, this might involve removing the pessary overnight or on a regular schedule to allow the tissues to breathe and reduce the risk of pressure-related issues.

    7. Lifestyle Considerations

    Your overall lifestyle can impact how well your pessary ring works. Here are a few tips to support your pelvic health:

    • Hydration: Staying well-hydrated helps maintain healthy tissues and supports overall pelvic function.
    • Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthening your pelvic health muscles can enhance the support your pessary provides. Our physiotherapists can recommend specific exercises.
    • Managing Constipation: Straining during bowel movements can place extra pressure on your pessary. Eating a high-fibre diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly can help prevent constipation.

    Secure Your Well-Being with Our Professional Pessary Fitting and Care

    Proper care and regular maintenance of your pessary are key to ensuring its effectiveness and your comfort over the long term. By following these best practices and staying in close communication with our physiotherapists at Emerald Physiotherapy Edmonton, you can confidently manage your pelvic health and enjoy the benefits that a pessary offers. Incorporating pelvic floor physiotherapy into your routine can further enhance the support your pessary provides, helping you maintain strength and function in your pelvic muscles.

    If you’re ready to take control of your pelvic health or need assistance with pessary care, our pessary fitting in Sherwood Park is here to help, tailored to your individual needs. Contact us today to book your appointment and ensure your comfort and well-being for the long term.

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