Pessaries and rectovaginal fistulae: consequences of delayed clinical follow-up in the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis: While 2017 guidelines from The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists called for pessary replacement every 3 to 4 months, a recent study in Obstetrics and Gynecology suggested that uninterrupted pessary use up to 6 months is not an independent risk factor for development of pessary-related complications. Methods: Our recent experience throughout the Covid-19 pandemic highlights the potential ramifications of delayed clinical follow-up. Results: During the Covid-19 pandemic, 3 of our patients developed rectovaginal fistulae secondary to Gellhorn pessary erosion in the context of delayed clinical follow-up. Our patients had previously attended routine appointments every 3 months without complications until missed appointments secondary to the pandemic led to fistulae formation. Conclusion: We believe that delayed clinical follow-up of pessary management beyond 3 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic may lead to fistula complications in elderly women with Gellhorn pessaries.