Urinary incontinence treatment in Birmingham – what is a pessary?

There are various health issues that a woman may discuss with her trusted physician throughout her life. One that proves to be difficult for many is urinary incontinence. Dr. Tomeka Roberts understand the embarrassment that may be felt by women suffering from urine leakage. Our practice is committed to serving the women of Alabama with compassionate, professional care. If urinary incontinence is affecting your life, seek treatment with our experienced Birmingham women’s health team.

Treatment for urinary incontinence is designed to resolve the underlying problem. When the issue is overactive bladder, one of the treatment options worth considering is the pessary. This vaginal support is a small device that can be inserted and removed as needed. A pessary may be made of silicone, rubber, plastic or another durable, comfortable material. This support is fitted to the individual and inserted by a qualified health professional. Our team will make sure that an inserted pessary is comfortable and effective, ensuring the best outcome.

When properly fitted and inserted, a pessary should not be felt or noticed, even during sexual intercourse. When treated with a pessary, a woman should be able to comfortably complete her daily activities and exercise without concern. If a pessary is not properly fitted, it may fall out. Because fit is vital to the desired outcome, professional insertion is the wisest choice for care.

The reason that a pessary is removable is so that it may be cleaned well. Regular cleanings are important to keep bacteria from collecting within the pelvic region. If colonization of bacteria occurs on a pessary, infection may develop. When necessary, removal of a pessary can be arranged in our office. Though a woman may remove and clean her device at home, some are simply more comfortable having this done by their physician.

Pessaries provide relief from urinary incontinence and may be used as a long term solution to this problem. Dr. Roberts treat women of all ages with this valuable therapy and have seen many of their patients’ lives improved with this advanced care.

Urinary incontinence can impede your normal function and decrease your quality of life. Solutions are available in our Birmingham gynecological practice. For more information on urinary incontinence, pessaries, and other treatment options, call 205-518-9800.