What if vaginal pessary fitting does not relieve vaginal bulge?

A pessary supports pelvic organs, but the first device or position may not suit every body. It may sit too high, slip down, press on tissue, or fail to support the area affected by the prolapse. Constipation, coughing, heavy lifting, or changes in pelvic-floor support can also make pressure more noticeable. The sensation of a bulge can persist even when the device is partly supporting the prolapse.

Contact the clinician who fitted the pessary and describe slipping, pressure, discharge, bleeding, difficulty passing urine, or trouble opening your bowels. Do not force a device into place or keep using it if it causes significant pain. The clinician may check the vagina, try a different size or style, review removal and cleaning instructions, and discuss pelvic-floor exercises or surgery when appropriate. See [Vaginal Bulge](/symptoms/vaginal-bulge/) and [Vaginal Pessary Fitting](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/vaginal-pessary-fitting/).

Seek prompt medical advice for bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, new sores, increasing pain, or a pessary that cannot be removed as instructed. Obtain urgent help for inability to pass urine, severe abdominal or pelvic pain, fever with feeling very unwell, or heavy bleeding.

Ask whether the pessary is supporting the correct area, whether a different design could fit better, how often it should be checked, and which symptoms mean you should remove it or seek care.