How to Replace Your Vaginal Pessary: When, How, and What to Order (2026)

If you've been wearing a vaginal pessary for a year or more, you may already be wondering when it's time to replace it. The short answer: medical-grade silicone pessaries last 1–2 years with proper care. Some women replace closer to 12 months; others get the full 24. This guide covers the five signs your pessary needs replacement, whether to order the same size or a different size, and how to order a replacement direct from the manufacturer for $44.99–$49.99 with free US shipping.

Quick answer: Replace your silicone ring pessary every 12–24 months, or sooner if you notice cracks, surface roughness, discoloration, odor that persists after cleaning, or a change in fit. The cheapest way to get a replacement is to order direct from a US manufacturer like SciMed for $44.99–$49.99, free US shipping, same-day dispatch — about half the price of clinic-dispensed replacements.

How long does a vaginal pessary last?

A medical-grade silicone ring pessary typically lasts 12 to 24 months of continuous use. The exact lifespan depends on:

  • How often you remove and clean it. Frequent (daily) removal accelerates surface wear slightly compared to weekly removal, but is much better for vaginal tissue health.
  • Hormonal status. Post-menopausal vaginal tissue produces less natural lubrication, which can increase friction wear on the device.
  • Cleaning method. Mild soap and warm water extend pessary life. Alcohol, petroleum products, or harsh disinfectants degrade silicone faster.
  • Vaginal microbiome / discharge. Some women experience faster surface discoloration than others; this is normal variation.

As a planning rule: if you've had your current pessary for 18 months, start budgeting and inspecting for replacement. By 24 months, plan to replace regardless of visible wear — silicone fatigues over time even when it still looks fine.

5 signs your pessary needs replacement

  1. Visible cracks, splits, or surface roughness. Run a finger around the entire ring after cleaning. Any sharp edge, crack, or rough spot means the device should be replaced immediately — a cracked pessary can cause vaginal abrasions.
  2. Discoloration that doesn't wash off. A slight yellow or brown tint after long use is normal and doesn't itself require replacement. But if the surface looks dull, chalky, or pitted (not smooth and translucent), replace the device.
  3. Persistent odor after cleaning. If the pessary still smells after washing with warm water and mild soap, silicone degradation has begun — odor compounds are bonding to the material and won't fully clean out. Replace.
  4. Change in fit — falls out or feels loose. If a pessary that fit fine for a year starts moving, slipping, or falling out during normal activity, it may be silicone fatigue (the ring lost some of its springiness) or it may signal that your anatomy has changed and you need a different size. See your provider, then replace.
  5. Bleeding, irritation, or new discomfort. Sometimes a worn pessary develops microscopic surface roughness that irritates vaginal tissue. If you have new spotting, irritation, or pain that wasn't there before, remove the pessary, see your provider, and plan to replace.
When to see your provider before reordering: If you have bleeding, persistent pain, foul discharge, or fit changes, see your gynecologist before ordering a replacement. They'll rule out tissue issues and confirm size before you reorder.

Same size, or different size?

Most women who've been wearing a pessary successfully for 12–24 months reorder the same size. The pessary itself doesn't typically change size from wear; what changes is your anatomy if any of these have happened:

  • Weight change of 15+ pounds in either direction — may shift pelvic floor support
  • Menopause transition or starting/stopping vaginal estrogen — vaginal walls change in tone
  • New pregnancy — obvious anatomy change, definitely need refitting
  • Pelvic floor surgery — definitely need refitting
  • Your current pessary is falling out or feels too tight — sign for refitting

If your situation hasn't materially changed and your current pessary fit fine until silicone wear, reorder the same size. If anything's changed, schedule a refitting appointment with your gynecologist before reordering.

How to order your replacement

Option 1: Reorder direct from SciMed (fastest, cheapest)

If you already know your size and your previous pessary worked well:

Option 2: Buy a multi-size fitting pack if anatomy has changed

If you suspect your size has changed and don't want to schedule a clinic visit:

Option 3: Schedule a refitting at your clinic first

If you've had bleeding, irritation, weight change, or your pessary has been falling out, see your gynecologist for refitting before reordering. Once they confirm your size, order direct from SciMed at lower cost than the clinic-dispensed price.

Care tips to maximize pessary life

The same maintenance habits that protect your vaginal health also extend pessary life:

  • Clean weekly minimum, daily if you prefer. Warm water and mild unscented soap. Pat dry with a clean towel before reinsertion.
  • Avoid harsh cleaners. No alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, petroleum jelly, or strong disinfectants — they degrade silicone.
  • Inspect every cleaning. Run your fingers around the entire ring under good light. Catching surface roughness early protects vaginal tissue.
  • Store dry, in original packaging or a clean breathable container when not in use — not in a sealed plastic bag where moisture can collect.
  • Use vaginal estrogen if your provider prescribed it. Adequate vaginal moisture reduces friction wear on the device.
Reorder your pessary direct from the manufacturer — FDA 510(k) cleared · OB-GYN approved · Doctor recommended · From $44.99 · Free US shipping · Ships today.
Shop replacement pessaries →

Frequently asked questions

How often should I replace my vaginal pessary?

Every 12–24 months for medical-grade silicone ring pessaries with proper care. Replace sooner if you notice cracks, persistent odor after cleaning, discoloration, surface roughness, or changes in fit.

Can I keep using my pessary if it's discolored?

Slight yellow or tan tint after long use is normal. But if the surface is dull, chalky, pitted, or rough to the touch, replace it — those signs indicate silicone degradation that can irritate vaginal tissue.

Do I need to see my doctor before reordering a replacement?

If your size hasn't changed and your pessary has been working well, you can reorder direct without a clinic visit. See your provider first if you've had bleeding, irritation, weight change of 15+ pounds, menopause transition, or your pessary has started falling out.

Do I need a prescription to reorder a pessary?

No. Pessaries are Class II medical devices, available without prescription for personal patient use in the United States. SciMed ships your replacement directly without a prescription required.

How much does a replacement pessary cost?

Direct from US manufacturer SciMed: $44.99 (without support) or $49.99 (with support), free US shipping. Clinic-dispensed replacement typically $100–$180 due to bundled fitting fee.

How fast will my replacement arrive?

Orders placed before 2 PM PT Monday–Friday ship the same business day from SciMed's San Jose, California facility. Standard US delivery is 2–5 business days via USPS or UPS Ground, in plain unmarked packaging.

What do I do with my old pessary?

Wash it, then dispose of it in regular household trash. Pessaries are not recyclable. Some patients keep their old pessary as a backup until the new one is broken in; that's also fine if it's still in good condition.

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