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How much does a pessary fitting procedure cost in the U.S.?

The cost of a pessary fitting procedure can vary depending on the type of healthcare facility, the complexity of the patient’s condition, and the insurance coverage. On average, a pessary fitting in the U.S. ranges from $150 to $500. This typically includes the initial fitting appointment, the cost of the pessary device, and follow-up visits to ensure proper fit and comfort. Some insurance plans, especially in the case of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary incontinence, may cover part or all of the cost.

The growing awareness of pelvic floor disorders has led to an increased demand for pessaries, especially as non-surgical treatment options for POP and stress urinary incontinence. Pessaries are also considered a cost-effective and minimally invasive solution compared to surgery, especially for elderly patients who may be at higher risk for surgical complications​

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2. Which pessary is most effective for managing severe pelvic organ prolapse?

For managing severe pelvic organ prolapse, pessaries like the Gellhorn and Donut pessaries are highly recommended. The Gellhorn pessary, designed to provide greater structural support, is often used in advanced stages of prolapse when other devices such as the ring pessary may no longer be effective. The Donut pessary is also useful for severe prolapse and is favored for its ease of insertion and removal.

These devices work by providing support to sagging organs, thus helping patients avoid more invasive procedures like surgery. With the rise of customized pessaries, such as Cosm Medical’s Gynethotics, patients can now have pessaries specifically tailored to their anatomy, enhancing comfort and effectiveness​

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3. What are the common side effects of long-term pessary use?

While pessaries are generally safe, long-term use may come with side effects, especially if the device is not regularly cleaned or replaced. Common side effects include:

• Vaginal irritation or discharge: This occurs due to improper fit or extended use without cleaning.
• Infection: In rare cases, untreated irritation can lead to infections.
• Bleeding or discomfort: Poor fitting or failure to check the pessary regularly can cause pressure sores.

Patients are advised to visit healthcare providers for regular checkups to avoid complications. Innovations like silicone pessaries, which are hypoallergenic and easy to maintain, have significantly reduced these risks. Furthermore, pessaries made from medical-grade silicone are known for their durability and patient comfort, minimizing long-term complications​

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4. How do you clean and maintain a silicone pessary?

Cleaning and maintaining a silicone pessary is simple and essential to avoid infections or irritation. Most silicone pessaries need to be removed, washed with mild soap and water, and thoroughly dried before reinsertion. Regular cleaning should be done once or twice a week, but this may vary depending on the patient’s medical condition or advice from their healthcare provider.

New technologies in pessary care, such as antimicrobial coatings and self-cleaning materials, are emerging, making pessary maintenance even easier. Companies like MedGyn and CooperSurgical are investing in R&D to develop pessaries with enhanced biocompatibility and user-friendly designs, which offer both comfort and safety for long-term use​

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Innovations and Technologies in the Pessary Market

The pessary market has seen significant technological advancements, particularly in customization and material innovation. One notable innovation is 3D-printed pessaries, like those developed by Cosm Medical, which are tailored to the patient’s unique anatomy, improving both comfort and effectiveness