Choosing the Best Prolapse Support Garment
Table of Contents
While some doctors may consider pessaries or surgery as preferred medical treatments for pelvic organ prolapse, many women worry that these options will actually lead to further complications and unwanted side effects. Today, more and more prolapse sufferers are finding hope in improving their condition by turning to non-invasive support garments.
With several options available online, it can be hard to choose the best one for your condition. If you are thinking about using a prolapse garment to treat your symptoms, be sure to keep reading!
What to Consider When Buying Pelvic Organ Prolapse Support Garments
Looking through forum discussions, scientific papers, and our own customer reviews, we found that there are four factors that should be considered when buying support garments for pelvic organ prolapse: comfort, support, relief, and discreetness.
1. Comfort
A good support garment should be comfortable enough to be worn all day, every day. This means it is not only effective when you are sitting but when you are active — from walking and exercising to daily chores and work that requires you to stand for long hours at a time. Because of this, it is important to look for a support garment that is made with flexible materials.
Not only must the materials be comfortable, but the garment must be gentle on the skin. While some bulkier support garments are designed to be worn over underwear, others can actually be worn instead of underwear. These types of support garments should be made from high-quality materials that won’t irritate the skin, such as soft cotton.
Another important consideration for comfort is the support garment’s waistband. While an effective garment should be designed to go over the hips to provide enough support, it should not feel too tight around the stomach or press against the abdomen, which can lead to discomfort. Keep in mind that comfort should not be ignored, since prolapse support garments are typically meant to be worn all day.
Comfort Checklist:
- Made with flexible materials
- Will not irritate the skin
- Does not feel restrictive
2. Support
If you are one of countless women who have used a pessary to treat your pelvic organ prolapse, you may feel that comfort must be sacrificed for reliable support. However, with a well-designed prolapse garment, you can have the right balance of comfort and support. It should provide full pelvic support and relieve the discomfort of “something falling out” or the feeling of “a bulge.” Full support like this can only be accomplished with a garment specifically created to treat pelvic organ prolapse.
Because prolapse garments are a relatively new treatment option, it is unlikely that you will find any for sale at your local pharmacy or healthcare store. Many women end up considering ineffective compression underwear and shapewear like Spanx as an immediate solution simply because they do not know that there are professionally designed prolapse garments available online.
Important: Because prolapsed organs cannot be supported by a flat surface, it is very unlikely you will feel relief from any garment (like shapewear) that isn’t specifically designed to gently push your pelvic organs back to their correct positions inside your body.
Lastly, every woman’s prolapse is different in both severity (Stage I–IV) and type (cystocele, enterocele, rectocele, uterine prolapse, vaginal vault prolapse). Before buying a support garment, it is important to confirm if it is designed to treat the severity and type of pelvic organ prolapse you have been diagnosed with.
Support Checklist:
- Designed to specifically treat prolapse
- Designed to push your pelvic organs back to their correct positions
- Designed to treat your prolapse severity and type
3. Relief
With the right support garment, it is possible to find relief not only from physical prolapse symptoms like pain, discomfort, bleeding, urinary leakage, and discharge, but also the anxiety and frustration that come with having prolapse.
Some of these symptoms may not be noticeable to others, but going out in public can cause additional stress if you struggle with urinary leakage or discharge. In cases like this, it is best to look for a support garment with reusable or disposable pad inserts. You may not need disposable pads if you are able to wash your support garment daily, but if you aren’t able to regularly clean it, if you enjoy traveling often, or if you deal with frequent incontinence, being able to easily switch to disposable pads can greatly improve your lifestyle and end the fear of embarrassing accidents in public.
Relief Checklist:
- Alleviates prolapse symptoms
- Includes reusable or disposable pad options
4. Discreetness
Pelvic organ prolapse can be embarrassing for many women and is often times very difficult to discuss with others. If you want to keep your condition private, it is important that any prolapse garment you use provides discreet support that will not be noticed by others.
Consider a support garment that can be comfortably worn with most or all of your wardrobe. Some women are frustrated when a prolapse garment can still be seen under their clothes, even with loose-fitting pants. Having to buy clothes specifically to wear over a support garment can be very inconvenient.
Also, the garment should be easy to put on and take off to make sure you are able to go to the restroom quickly and without disruptions while you are out of your home. If you struggle with fine motor skills, be sure to look for a garment that is designed to be easily used with limited movement.
Relief Checklist:
- Can be worn with many types of clothing
- Easy to put on and take off
The Most Effective Prolapse Garment on the Market
FemiCushion is designed to meet the four essential needs women look for in a prolapse support garment — comfort, support, relief, and discreetness — but it is more than just a prolapse support garment. FemiCushion also features a unique silicone cushion that gently keeps your prolapsed organs in your body — a patented design that no other prolapse underwear, belt, or brace can offer.
FemiCushion Is Comfortable
FemiCushion’s garment supporter is made with high-quality natural and synthetic materials that do not irritate. In addition to the fabric, FemiCushion also features a patented cushion made from medical-grade silicone that is very gentle on the skin when in contact with prolapse organs.
FemiCushion Supports Your Prolapsed Organs
FemiCushion was specifically designed to provide prolapse sufferers with an alternative to current medical treatment options. Many support garments claim to be effective against prolapse, but only FemiCushion is designed to gently keep prolapsed organs in your body.
A 2016 independent study on FemiCushion by the Pelviperineology Journal found that it was “effective in the reduction of symptoms and impact in Quality of Life caused by pelvic organ prolapse…the final assessment was performed after three months of daily FemiCushion use. Participants reported improvement in vaginal symptoms, mainly regarding lower abdomen pain, descending lump and visualization of lump."1
FemiCushion Provides Relief
The problem with most prolapse garments is that their designs are actually not very effective, because flat surfaces cannot support prolapsed organs. This is why many women end up using pessaries that cause stressful side effects like pain and bleeding. FemiCushion is designed to combine the best of both prolapse treatments with the simplicity of underwear and the benefits of a non-invasive pessary.
FemiCushion also provides emotional relief if your prolapse symptoms include urinary incontinence. In addition to the washable cushion holders included with the kit, disposable holders are available for sale separately, and can absorb more than 100cc of urine. This is a good option if you enjoy traveling or are too worried to leave the house.
FemiCushion is Discreet
FemiCushion is meant to be worn directly touching the skin, so it has been designed to look, fit, and feel like underwear. This means that you can wear your regular clothes without needing to worry about the support garment showing through.
Also, FemiCushion offers a choice of three garment designs. Each design incorporates different methods of putting on and taking off the garment, making it easy to use discreetly in public no matter what your mobility needs might be.
Comparison of FemiCushion to Other Prolapse Support Garments
There are many different types and styles of prolapse support underwear and prolapse floor support pants on the market today. With so many choices to pick from, it can get overwhelming and make it hard to choose the best one that works for you. If you are considering FemiCushion to be one of your options, see below the qualities that sets FemiCushion apart from any other prolapse support belts available.
FemiCushion is the only prolapse support device that uses a soft silicone cushion to provide direct support to the prolapsed organ. This patented design is effective and is one that no other brands can offer. The cushion forms to the shape of the body for the upmost comfort and allows it to provide full support from all angles. This is the reason why the cushion is so effective at keeping the prolapsed organ inside the body and relieving prolapse symptoms.
The supporter included in each FemiCushion kit is consciously designed to fit many different body shapes and sizes. Each supporter has adjustable waist straps that can be loosened or tightened according to patient’s preference and body fluctuations.
The vertical straps of the supporter is positioned in a cross tension configuration that controls the level of prolapse support. FemiCushion gives control to the person wearing the device by allowing them to adjust the level of support they are comfortable with. As the vertical straps are tightened, the higher the device will be lifted against the body and thus providing greater and more secure support.
Many women with pelvic organ prolapse also suffers from urinary incontinence as a symptom. This is not a problem when using FemiCushion, the holder that secures the cushion to the supporter is designed to absorb any excess discharge or liquid. The holder is made up of a combination of different fabrics for the ability to be absorbent and remain dry on the surface for comfortable wear. In addition to cloth holders, disposable holders are also offered. They are created to work perfectly with FemiCushion and a must have for on the go women or those who experience heavy urine leakage.
Results of FemiCushion Medical Trial Report
The study carried out at Showa University Northern Yokohama Hospital, as published in The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research, provides important insights into the effectiveness of FemiCushion for treating severe pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Here's a detailed overview of the key findings and implications of this research:
Key Findings:
- Effectiveness in Repositioning Prolapsed Organs:
- FemiCushion demonstrated significant success in repositioning prolapsed pelvic organs, which was clearly observed through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Comparability to Pessary:
- The device achieved results comparable to those of a pessary. Unlike a pessary, however, FemiCushion does not carry risks such as vaginal erosion and bleeding, which are common complications associated with pessary use.
- Support to Perineal Body:
- FemiCushion not only elevated the prolapsed organs but also provided upward support to the perineal body, helping to close the hiatuses effectively.
- Reduction in Prolapse Severity:
- Participants with severe stages (3 or 4) of POP experienced a significant reduction in prolapse severity after using FemiCushion.
- Short-Term Improvement:
- Even within a short period of usage, as brief as one month, FemiCushion showed notable improvements in POP symptoms.
Implications:
- Non-Invasive Treatment Option:
- The findings suggest that FemiCushion is a promising non-invasive treatment option for POP, offering benefits similar to those of a pessary while minimizing certain risks.
- Enhanced Pelvic Floor Support:
- When used as directed, particularly in combination with other treatment methods such as Kegel exercises, FemiCushion can help alleviate symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse and improve pelvic floor support.
- Improvement in Quality of Life:
- For women suffering from severe POP, effective management using devices like FemiCushion can significantly enhance their quality of life by reducing symptoms and providing better control over their pelvic health.
Recommendations:
- Consultation with Healthcare Providers:
- Individuals considering the use of FemiCushion should consult with their healthcare provider to ensure it is an appropriate option for their specific condition and to receive guidance on proper usage.
FemiCushion Reviews
FemiCushion has help countless women around the world regain a healthy and active lifestyle through pelvic floor support. We love hearing what these women have to say about FemiCushion and you can see all of it with this link. Below are some examples of reviews we love to share.
"I stand for 10 hour shifts, five days a week. I used to be in discomfort mid way through each shift and with FemiCushion, I don’t even think about my situation anymore. It has given me confidence in knowing that I can work my whole shift without discomfort. This is also a blessing as I was dreading the fact that I would need to get the operation sooner rather than later. I’m so thankful that I can now put that behind me for many years to come. I just needed this kind of support."
"Instant relief. I have just returned from an appointment with an obstetrician/gynecologist who fully supports my using it instead of a pessary if I choose to, even though my prolapse is severe. I can’t thank you enough.
"I bought FemiCushion for my 81 year old mum who is suffering from a bladder prolapse. Femicushion easy open significantly improved her medical problem and more importantly her quality of life from 30% before the use of FemiCushion to 90% after the use of FemiCushion. As Medical Scientist I highly recommend this product especially for those who cannot undergo a surgery. Thank you very much to the inventors of FemiCushion!!!"
FemiCushion Supporter Styles
Standard Supporter
The Standard Supporter features flexible fabric that easily conforms to all body types, and a high-waist design that firmly yet gently wraps around the stomach. |
EasyOpen Supporter
The EasyOpen Supporter features a Velcro fastener that can quickly be opened with one hand. |
EasyZip Supporter
The EasyZip Supporter is made of cotton and can be opened and closed in the front with a zipper. It’s very easy and comfortable to wear. The waistband is thinner than the EasyOpen design, while still providing support. |
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How FemiCushion Works
FemiCushion is rated as an FDA Class 1 (1st grade) Medical Device ensuring the safety of the garment. What makes it more effective than other prolapse support garments is the combination of three separate components that work together to gently push your pelvic organs back to their correct positions inside your body.
The Cushion
The most important component of the FemiCushion kit, the cushion gently holds the prolapsed organs in the body. The extremely soft surface is made of 100% medical-grade silicone. |
The Supporter
Adjusting the width and length of the belt brings the cushion closer to the vaginal opening and plays an important role in keeping the cushion in a secured position. You can choose the size and type of supporter design when placing your order. |
The Holder
The reusable holder absorbs any urine or discharge. You can set the cushion and secure it within the holder to prevent it from moving around or entering into the vagina. Because it's made of cloth, you can wash and use it repeatedly. Disposable holders are also available for purchase separately for those who deal with a lot of urine leakage. |
Important: The cushion and holder are not designed to work with other commercially available prolapse supporters, underwear, or girdles. To ensure proper use, please be sure to only use official garment supporters designed to work with the FemiCushion cushion.
How to Use FemiCushion
1. Selecting the Right Size
- Measure Your Waist: FemiCushion comes in different sizes to accommodate varying degrees of pelvic organ prolapse and individual anatomical differences. Choose the appropriate size based on your waist measurement to ensure a proper fit and support.
2. Cleaning and Preparation
- Initial Cleaning: Before using FemiCushion for the first time, thoroughly wash and sanitize the cushions and support pads according to the manufacturer's instructions. This ensures all components are clean and hygienic.
- Drying: Ensure that all components are completely dry before use.
3. Putting on the Device
- Insert the Cushion: Insert the silicon cushion properly into the cloth holder as directed in the instruction manual.
- Reposition Organs: Carefully return all prolapsed organs into the body before putting on the device.
- Position the Cushion: Position the cushion over the vaginal opening.
- Wear Support Underwear: Put on the prolapse support underwear.
- Adjust Belts: Adjust the vertical and horizontal belts according to your body shape and the degree of support needed. Ensure the device fits snugly and securely.
4. Wearing FemiCushion
- Follow Guidelines: Wear FemiCushion as directed by your healthcare provider or according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Check Fit: Ensure that FemiCushion fits snugly and securely against your body to maximize its effectiveness.
- Comfort and Discretion: The device is designed to be discreet and comfortable.
5. Adjustment and Comfort
- Make Adjustments: As you wear FemiCushion, you may need to make minor adjustments for optimal comfort and support. Pay attention to any discomfort or pressure points and adjust the prolapse supporter as needed.
6. Maintenance
- Daytime Use: FemiCushion is only worn during the daytime and should be taken off at night when sleeping.
- Daily Cleaning: At the end of each day, remove the device and clean all components according to the instructions provided. Ensure it is ready for the next day’s use.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure the FemiCushion provides the best possible support and comfort, helping to alleviate symptoms associated with pelvic organ prolapse. Always refer to the specific instructions provided with your device and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Prolapse Garments Are Only as Effective as Their Design
Often times, relief from your symptoms goes hand in hand with having the right support. Women who have used a well-designed prolapse garment have reported feeling normal again and being able to take their minds off of their condition. Whichever prolapse support garment you choose, it should provide instant at-home relief from symptoms, so you can return to a more active lifestyle. Pelvic organ prolapse should not prevent you from living the way you want and continuing your daily activities. Shop the perfect FemiCushion supporter for you below!
References
Disclaimer
The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained on or available through this website is for general information purposes only.
Supervising Doctor of This Article
Koichi Nagao, MD PhD
Professor, Department of Urology, Toho University Faculty of Medicine
Director of Urinary tract reconstruction center, Toho University Omori Medical Center
Director of Reproduction Center, Toho University Omori Medical Center
Professor Nagao specializes in plastic surgery in the field of reproductive medicine. He completed eight years of plastic surgery training at Showa University before majoring in urology at Toho University. With his meticulous surgical techniques and careful examinations that combines urology and plastic surgery, Professor Nagao became a Board Certified Specialist with multiple associations including the Japanese Urological Association, the Japan Society for Reproductive Medicine, and the Japanese Society for Sexual Medicine.
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