Silicone Ring Pessary

A silicone ring pessary is a flexible vaginal support device that can help hold pelvic organs in a more comfortable position.

A silicone ring pessary is a soft, flexible device placed inside the vagina. Its ring shape provides gentle support to tissues that have shifted downward, such as the bladder, uterus, or upper vagina. A clinician selects a size and shape that fits your anatomy; some ring pessaries have a central support or knob for additional support. The device is not a medicine and does not repair weakened pelvic tissues. It works while it is in place and can be removed when needed.

Medical-grade silicone is smooth, resilient, and designed to tolerate contact with vaginal tissue. It can flex during insertion and removal, then return to its ring shape. The surface may collect normal discharge, so cleaning and scheduled checks matter. Fit is as important as the material: a pessary that is too small may slip, while one that is too large may cause pressure or discomfort.

A ring pessary may be used for pelvic organ prolapse, including a feeling of vaginal pressure, a bulge, or heaviness. It can also be useful when someone wants non-surgical support, is waiting for another treatment, or needs support during activity. A fitting appointment helps confirm that you can walk, urinate, and pass stool comfortably with the device in place.

Depending on your symptoms and examination, alternatives may include pelvic floor rehabilitation, another pessary design, observation, or surgery. The right choice depends on the type of prolapse, symptom pattern, vaginal tissue health, dexterity, and personal preferences. A different design can sometimes improve comfort when a ring does not stay in place.

You may notice less pressure or a reduced bulge when the pessary fits well. Mild awareness at first can settle, but ongoing pain, bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, difficulty urinating, or a device that cannot be removed needs clinical advice. Do not force insertion or removal. The [Vaginal Pessary Fitting](/treatments/pelvic-floor-and-rehabilitation/vaginal-pessary-fitting/) page explains the fitting process and follow-up questions to raise.

Care instructions vary with the device and whether you remove it yourself. Cleaning may involve gentle washing and thorough rinsing, while some people need periodic removal by a clinician. Follow the planned review schedule because vaginal tissue can change with menopause, childbirth, treatment, or changes in prolapse. Contact a clinician if the pessary falls out repeatedly, causes sores, or changes bladder or bowel symptoms.