GRIP
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A small scale study to explore the physical characteristics required to self-manage a pessary for pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
IRAS ID
251281
Contact name
Rohna Kearney
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 30 days
Research summary
The study aims to look at what patients need to be able to do to self-manage their pessary. This requires removing and reinserting their pessary at least every 6 months. There is anecdotal evidence that obesity and poor manual dexterity limit ability to self-manage a pessary however this has never been proven. It is therefore important that we collect this information to ensure that being taught to self-manage pessaries is offered to all women who are physically able to and wish to do this.
Results Summary
Using a pessary to manage pelvic organ prolapse can be safer when women are supported to remove and insert it themselves (self-management). But some women worry about whether they are physically able to self-manage their pessary. This study looked at whether physical differences affect how women feel about their ability to self-manage a pessary.Researchers invited women who use pessaries to take part. They collected information about age, medical history, and measured things like hand strength, flexibility, and body size. They then compared women who felt able to self-manage with those who did not.
Out of 40 women, 22 felt able to manage their pessary themselves, while 18 did not. Those who felt unable often mentioned arthritis, pain, or limited movement. Women who felt able were generally younger, had stronger grip strength, longer arm span, and better hip flexibility. Even after accounting for age, grip strength was still linked to feeling able to self-manage.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0642
Date of REC Opinion
3 Sep 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion