The PEACE Project, funded by Ontario Health, is an initiative focused on improving awareness, access, and support for people living with pelvic health concerns. It connects individuals with education, resources, and care options that are closer to home. LHSC’s goal with this project is to help individuals experiencing Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) and Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) to understand their options and access effective, non-surgical care.
What is a pessary?
A pessary is a device made out of silicone that is placed in the vagina to provide internal support to the tissues. Pessaries are generally used to treat prolapse. A pessary can reduce the feeling of a bulge from the vagina and can often improve bladder and bowel function. Some pessaries are designed to support the urethra (the tube from your bladder) helping to reduce stress incontinence.
Women who have prolapse of the vagina or uterus, or have urinary leakage due to prolapse, may find this device helpful in supporting the tissue to remain in place. Some women find it useful as a measure to avoid surgery or while they are waiting for surgery. This device can be used only when needed or it can be left in and removed for washing every few months.
A pessary can be worn all the time to help manage prolapse or leakage or can be inserted only when you are participating in activities that are likely to cause leakage, such as jogging.
You need to have the proper sized pessary fitted by an experienced health care professional. It then can be removed and cleaned regularly by you. You should not feel it once it is properly fitted to you. There is a small fee for the device which may be covered by your private insurance.
Is a pessary right for you?
A pessary may be an option if you are experiencing:
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis
- A bulge or sensation of something “falling”
- Leakage when coughing, sneezing, or exercising
- Difficulty with physical activities due to symptoms
Pessaries are not the right choice for everyone—but for many, they offer a simple and effective alternative to surgery.
The PEACE Project is designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live or their circumstances, can access care.
This includes:
- Expanding services in rural and underserved communities
- Connecting with community organizations to reach those who need support most
- Improving access for individuals facing financial or social barriers
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence:
- Talk to your primary care provider
- Ask about non-surgical treatment options like pessaries
- Explore resources through this site to learn more
What to expect at an appointment
Your appointment will begin with a discussion about your symptoms, health history, and goals. You’ll be asked about things like bladder leakage, pelvic pressure, or changes in daily activities
Your provider may recommend a physical exam to better understand what is causing your symptoms. They will explain each step before proceeding and will answer any questions you may have. Together, you’ll review treatment options and decide whether a pessary may be right for you.
If you decide to try a pessary, your care team will set you up to return at a later date for a fitting. Your care provider will select a type and size based on your needs. You will be taught how to insert the device and you may be asked to sit, stand and move around to ensure proper fit and comfort. Finding the right fit may take a bit of trial and adjustment and that’s completely normal.
If a pessary is a good fit, you’ll receive guidance on:
- How to manage and care for it
- When to remove or clean it (if self-management is appropriate for you)
- Signs to watch for and when to seek follow-up support
- Resources to support you at home.
Follow-up appointments help ensure that the pessary remains comfortable and effective, adjustments are made necessary and any questions or concerns are addressed.
