Managing Stress Urinary Incontinence: How Pessaries Can Help
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is one of the most common pelvic health concerns for women. It happens when small amounts of urine leak during coughing, laughing, sneezing, exercising, or lifting. While common, it can feel embarrassing and disruptive — but it doesn’t have to be permanent.
At Toronto Pessary Clinic, we provide non-surgical, supportive solutions like pessary fitting to help women manage stress incontinence with confidence.
What Is Stress Urinary Incontinence?
Stress incontinence occurs when the muscles and tissues that support the bladder and urethra are weakened. This reduces the ability to control leakage during physical activity.
Common triggers include:
Sneezing, coughing, or laughing.
Running, jumping, or lifting weights.
Everyday movements that increase pressure on the bladder.
Why Does It Happen?
SUI often develops due to:
Pregnancy and childbirth.
Hormonal changes in menopause.
Pelvic floor weakness from aging, injury, or chronic strain.
It’s important to know: SUI is common, but it is not something you have to live with.
How Pessaries Can Help?
A pessary is a removable medical device that supports the pelvic organs. For women with SUI, it works by:
Providing extra support to the urethra and bladder.
Reducing or stopping leakage during daily activities.
Offering a safe, non-surgical, and reversible option for symptom relief.
At Toronto Pessary Clinic, pessary fittings are tailored to each woman’s body and lifestyle. With proper fitting and follow-up, many women return to activities they thought they had to give up.
Other Conservative Management Options
Alongside pessary use, stress incontinence can also be managed with:
Pelvic floor physiotherapy — strengthening the muscles that support bladder control.
Lifestyle changes — such as weight management and fluid balance.
Bladder training techniques — improving habits and control over urgency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exercise with a pessary?
Yes. Many women find they can return to running, fitness classes, or even high-impact sports with the support of a pessary.
Do I need surgery if I have stress incontinence?
Not always. Pessaries and physiotherapy are safe first-line treatments before considering surgical options.
The Takeaway
Stress urinary incontinence is common, but it doesn’t have to limit your life. With pessary fitting and conservative pelvic health care, you can reduce leakage, regain control, and live more confidently.
At Toronto Pessary Clinic, we specialize in personalized pessary care that supports your lifestyle and goals.
👉 Contact us today to learn more about pessary fitting for stress urinary incontinence in Toronto.