Wellbeing of Women

2007 Grants

A feasibility study for a randomised controlled trial of pelvic floor muscle training combined with vaginal pessary for women with pelvic organ prolapse (PEPPY). Dr Suzanne Hagen, Ms Lesley Sinclair, Dr Cathryn Glazener, Ms Diane Stark and Dr Stewart Pringle, Glasgow Caledonian University, University of Aberdeen and Southern General Hospital Glasgow £61,184 over 2 years

LAY TITLE: Vaginal rings and pelvic floor exercises for pelvic organ prolapse – are they better used together?

Pelvic floor muscle training is an intervention used by many specialist physiotherapists for the treatment of women with pelvic organ prolapse. There is little research to support its effectiveness, especially for women with more severe prolapse who require a vaginal ring to control their symptoms. This study will provide important information as to whether a randomised controlled trial in this area would be feasible, and acceptable to women.

This is the first step towards answering the question about the benefit of combining the use of pelvic floor exercise and a vaginal support device. It is hoped that a larger study will prove possible, giving reliable answers to improve treatment for women with prolapse in the future.

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