How to Disinfect a Pessary

Pessaries are devices inserted vaginally to help support a prolapsed uterus, bladder or vagina. They are donut-shaped and may be plastic or rubber. Some women who experience urinary incontinence may find relief with a pessary. Your doctor may instruct you to wear it for a week, two weeks or a month, before removing it. Other women find that they are more comfortable removing it every night. Disinfect your pessary each time you remove it. Your doctor may recommend a specific cleansing solution; However, most women disinfect their pessaries using ordinary soap and water.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Washcloth
• Towel

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Instructions

• 1

  Hold the pessary under warm, running water for several seconds to rinse it.

• 2

  Apply a dime-size amount of soap to a washcloth. The type of soap you use is not important.

• 3

  Scrub the entire pessary with the soapy washcloth gently.

• 4

  Rinse the pessary thoroughly with warm water.

• 5

  Dry the pessary with a lint-free towel.

• 6

  Scrub your hands well with soap and water.