Ring Pessary Without Support: Uses, Fitting Guide & Patient Care Tips
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Ring Pessary Without Support: The Workhorse of Prolapse Management
The ring pessary without support is the most widely-used pessary type in clinical practice. Its simplicity — a flexible silicone ring that braces the pelvic floor and supports prolapsed structures — makes it the first-line choice for most cases of symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) in women who are not yet ready for, or wish to avoid, surgical intervention.
SciMed's Ring Pessary Without Support is FDA 510(k) cleared, made from 100% USP Class VI medical-grade silicone, available in sizes 0–9 (44–102 mm), and priced at $49.99 direct from our US manufacturing facility. HCPCS A4562 (silicone pessary, HSA/FSA eligible).
Ring Without Support vs. Ring With Support: When to Choose Which
| Feature | Without Support | With Support |
|---|---|---|
| Central membrane | No | Yes |
| Stress incontinence relief | Minimal | Yes — bladder neck elevation |
| Self-management ease | Easier — no membrane to navigate | Slightly more complex |
| Intercourse compatibility | Yes for most patients (leave in place) | Remove before intercourse |
| Primary indication | POP without significant SUI | POP with concurrent SUI |
| Available sizes | 0–9 (44–102 mm) | 0–8 (44–95 mm) |
| Price at SciMed | $49.99 | $49.99 |
Indications for Ring Pessary Without Support
- Stage I–II uterine prolapse or vault prolapse post-hysterectomy
- Anterior wall prolapse (cystocele) without dominant stress incontinence
- Posterior wall prolapse (rectocele) in mild-to-moderate cases
- Patients who wish to manage the pessary themselves (self-insertion and removal)
- Sexually active patients who prefer a device they can leave in during intercourse or remove easily
Fitting Protocol
- Pre-fitting examination: Perform a pelvic exam to quantify prolapse stage (POP-Q system), assess vaginal capacity, and identify any vaginal atrophy requiring treatment before fitting
- Initial size estimate: Most patients start with a size 4 (70 mm) — the most-fitted size overall (~27% of patients per SciMed 2022–2026 data). Sizes 3–5 cover 66% of fittings.
- Trial insertion: Fold the ring and insert posteriorly; rotate horizontally and advance behind the pubic symphysis
- Retention check: Ask patient to Valsalva (bear down) — a correctly sized pessary stays in place; if it expels, try the next size up
- Comfort verification: Patient should not feel the pessary during standing, walking, or sitting. If discomfort is present, check for improper positioning or consider a smaller size
- Voiding check: Have patient void to confirm no urinary retention
Patient Self-Management Instructions
Many patients successfully manage ring pessaries without support independently. Teach patients to:
- Remove the pessary weekly or every 2 weeks for cleaning with mild soap and warm water
- Reinsert after cleaning (or leave out overnight if desired)
- Watch for warning signs: new discharge, odor, bleeding, or difficulty removing the device — and contact the clinic if these occur
- Return every 3–6 months for provider examination of vaginal tissue
Why SciMed?
SciMed sources and supplies the full range of ring pessaries used in urogynecology, gynecology, and family medicine practices across the USA. Our FDA 510(k) cleared silicone pessaries are autoclavable, hypoallergenic, latex-free, and available in the complete size range clinics need for fitting trials. HCPCS A4562, HSA/FSA eligible, free US shipping, same-day dispatch before 2 PM PT.
Shop Ring Pessary Without Support (Sizes 0–9) →
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Direct from San Jose, California · Free US shipping · HSA/FSA eligible