Pessaries + Pelvic Physical Therapy

A Non-Surgical Option for Prolapse, Pressure & Leaking

If you’re feeling pelvic heaviness, noticing a bulge, or leaking when you cough, jump, or lift—you are not alone.

These symptoms are common… but they are not something you simply have to “live with.” (no matter what age you are).

At AK Pelvic Health & Wellness, we now offer pessary fittings as part of our comprehensive pelvic care model. When combined with individualized pelvic physical therapy, a pessary can provide immediate support while we address the root cause of your symptoms.

Let’s walk through how this works. ⬇️

Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and connective tissue supporting the bladder, uterus, or rectum lose strength or coordination. This can allow one or more organs to shift downward into the vaginal canal.

Common symptoms include:

• Vaginal heaviness or pressure

• A visible or felt bulge

• Urinary leaking

• Difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels

• Pelvic or low back aching

  
  

Pregnancy, vaginal or C-section birth, menopause, chronic straining (i.e. constipation), genetics, and high-impact exercise can all play a role.

The important thing to know?

Prolapse is manageable—and surgery is not your only option.

What Is a Pessary?

A pessary is a soft, medical-grade silicone device placed inside the vagina to provide structural support to pelvic organs. Think of it as an internal brace.

There are many shapes and styles—ring, cube, support, donut—depending on your anatomy and

goals.

A properly fitted pessary can:

• Reduce heaviness and pressure

• Support prolapse during daily activities

• Improve stress urinary incontinence

• Allow return to exercise

• Delay or avoid surgery

• Provide support during high-impact activities

For many women, the relief is immediate.

Why Pessaries Work Even Better with Pelvic PT

A pessary supports the tissues.

Pelvic PT restores the system.

At AK Pelvic Health & Wellness, we don’t just manage symptoms—we address why they’re happening.

Often prolapse and leaking are influenced by:

• Pelvic floor weakness

• Overactive or tight pelvic muscles

• Poor coordination between breath and core

• Hip and abdominal strength imbalances

• Constipation and straining patterns

When we combine internal support (pessary) with muscle coordination and strength training (PT), you get both short-term relief and long-term resilience.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Pessary??

You may benefit if you:

• Feel pressure or bulging later in the day

• Leak with running, jumping, or lifting

• Are postpartum or perimenopausal

• Want to stay active without worsening symptoms

• Prefer conservative management before considering surgery

  
  

Some patients wear a pessary daily.

Others use it only during workouts or more active days.

There is flexibility—and we individualize the plan to your life.

What to Expect at AK Pelvic Health & Wellness

Your pessary appointment includes:

1. Comprehensive pelvic floor evaluation

2. Prolapse assessment

3. Individualized pessary fitting

4. Education on insertion, removal, and care

5. A customized pelvic PT plan

   
   

We guide you through the entire process so you feel confident—not overwhelmed.

You Don’t Have to Modify Your Life Around Your Pelvic Floor

If you’ve stopped running.

If you avoid jumping.

If you cross your legs when you laugh.

If you worry your prolapse will “just get worse.”

There are options!

Pessary support combined with expert pelvic physical therapy can help you feel strong, supported, and confident in your body again.

And we’re proud to now offer this service at AK Pelvic Health & Wellness.

Ready to Learn More?

Schedule an appointment to see if a pessary + pelvic PT approach is right for you.

Because strength and support should work together. 💜