Attitudes toward pessary use among Thai women with pelvic organ prolapse.

AIM: This study was conducted to investigate attitudes toward pessary use in Thai women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP).

METHODS: Ninety Thai women with symptomatic POP without any history of previous prolapse treatment were recruited. Participants completed a questionnaire about attitudes toward pessary use in Thai language. Patient characteristics and decision-making factors were identified.

RESULTS: Forty eight women (53.3%) decided to use a pessary. Most respondents felt that pessary use would improve emotional status (56.2%), pain (52.0%) and quality of life (75%). The opinions of family members and post-application bleeding, discharge, irritation and pain were important factors in decision-making.

CONCLUSION: Many Thai women with POP prefer a pessary. Their decision is influenced by opinions of family members and complications of pessary use. Counseling about the advantages and uncommon complications of pessary use should be provided to both patients and family members to improve higher pessary acceptance.