Vaginal pessaries are specialized drug formulations designed for administration via the vaginal route. These medicinal preparations are commonly utilized to treat a variety of vaginal infections and conditions, such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and atrophic vaginitis. Pessaries can be applied with or without an applicator, depending on the user's comfort and the specific product's instructions. When used correctly, vaginal pessaries effectively deliver therapeutic agents directly to the site of infection or irritation, offering relief and promoting healing. Proper usage and adherence to the prescribed regimen are crucial for maximising their effectiveness and ensuring optimal health outcomes.
How to use vaginal pessaries (vaginal tablet)
| Steps | Instructions | Visual |
| 1 | Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. |
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| 2 | Remove the pessary from the packaging foil or blister pack and lubricate the tip of the pessary with warm water for a few seconds. |
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| 3 | Lie on your back with your knees bent and legs apart. |
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With an applicator |
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| 4 | Pull the plunger of the applicator until it stops, and place the pessary firmly into the applicator. Some vaginal preparations, e.g. Vagifem®, come as a prefilled applicator which has a pessary pre-inserted into the applicator. |
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| 5 | Gently insert the applicator into the vagina as deep as comfortably possible or until you feel some resistance. Slowly press the plunger to release the pessary into the vagina. | 
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| 6 | Remove the applicator from your vagina. Remain in the lying position for a few minutes to keep the pessary in the vagina. |
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| 7 | After use, discard the single-use applicator. For reusable applicator, remove the plunger completely by pulling it out of the applicator. Wash them with warm soapy water, rinse and dry. |
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Without an applicator |
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| 4 | Insert the pessary using your fingers. | |
| 5 | Gently insert the pessary (pointed end first) into the vagina as deep as comfortably possible. |
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| 6 | Remain in the lying position for a few minutes to keep the pessary in the vagina. |
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| 7 | Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water again. |
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Important information
- Applicator should NOT be used during pregnancy. Use your fingers instead.
- When inserted into the vagina, the pessary will melt at body temperature and may leak from your vagina. You may notice some discharge or chalky residue from the vagina after using pessary.
- You may find it more comfortable to insert the pessary before sleep and allow more time for the medication to stay in the vagina.
- If you do insert the pessary during the day, you may use a sanitary napkin or panty liner to prevent the medication from leaking and staining your clothes.
- The use of pessaries should be continued for as long as directed by your doctor or pharmacist, even during menstrual period. Do not use tampon as it may absorb the medication before therapeutic action is seen.
Storage information
- Store the pessaries in the original packaging in a cool, dry environment and avoid direct sunlight.
- If the pessary is softened or its shape is distorted, you may put the pessary in cold water (<20°C) or in refrigerator for hardening before removing from the original packaging.
For enquiries, please call：
Matilda International Hospital – Pharmacy Department
41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak, Hong Kong
t 2849 1531
phar@matilda.org
Articles on this website are informative only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. They should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.