Pessary Experience Study

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · Aug 26, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Pessary Experience Study is looking into why some women stop using pessaries, which are silicone devices placed in the vagina to help with conditions like pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. These devices can be a good option for women who can't have surgery, choose not to have surgery, or want to try a temporary solution before deciding on surgery. While many women can successfully use a pessary, about half of them stop using it within a year, and this study aims to understand the reasons behind that.

To participate in this study, women must be 18 years or older, speak English, and be willing to have a pessary fitting at the University of Virginia Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery clinic. They should also be able to attend follow-up visits to check on the pessary. Unfortunately, pregnant women, those with certain medical conditions, or those who cannot attend the necessary appointments cannot join the study. Participants can expect to share their experiences and insights about using a pessary, which may help improve care for others in the future.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • English-speaking women aged 18 years or older
• • Choosing to undergo a pessary fitting for symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse and/or stress urinary incontinence at the University of Virginia Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery clinic
• • Willingness and ability to comply with scheduled visits and study procedures.
• • Successful pessary fitting
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnant women
• • Prisoners
• • Cognitively impaired
• • Non-English speaking subjects
• • Patients who cannot comply with pessary check visits
• • Active vaginal infection
• • Vaginal malignancy
• • Genitourinary tract fistula