In women’s pelvic health care, one device stands out for its simplicity, versatility, and clinical effectiveness: the GyneCube—also known as the Cube pessary. From its cube or pyramid shape to its relief of pelvic prolapse and incontinence symptoms, this device has become a trusted, non-surgical intervention. Whether you’re a patient researching options or a healthcare provider evaluating treatments, this article provides a clear, thorough insight into everything you need to know about GyneCube.
1. What Exactly Is a GyneCube?
The GyneCube, often referred to as the Cube pessary, is a medical-grade silicone device designed to be inserted into the vagina to support pelvic organs. It helps manage conditions like second- or third-degree uterine prolapse, cystocele, and rectocele.
Two primary versions are available:
With drainage holes (with drains): These allow fluids to pass through, promoting ventilation and comfort.
Without drains: Focuses on firm support without fluid passage.
The device comes in multiple sizes—from as small as 25 mm up to 75 mm or more—ensuring a customized fit based on patient anatomy and clinical needs.
2. Key Benefits and Clinical Uses of the GyneCube
The GyneCube offers many advantages, especially for women seeking non-invasive solutions:
- Symptom Relief for Prolapse: Ideal for moderate to advanced uterine prolapse, cystocele, or rectocele cases.
- Supports Incontinence: Aids in reducing stress urinary incontinence, particularly during physical activities such as running or aerobics.
- Comfortable and Durable Material: Made of medical-grade silicone, GyneCube is soft, hypoallergenic, odor-resistant, and sterilizable (autoclavable).
- Easy Self-Management: Many users can insert and remove the device at home, giving them autonomy and control over treatment.
- Versatile Use Across Settings: Helpful for temporary post-childbirth support, transient prolapse relief, or when surgery isn’t feasible.
3. Choosing the Right GyneCube: Sizes, Features, and Supplier Options
Selecting the appropriate GyneCube involves considering versions, sizes, and where to obtain them:
Versions:
- With Drains: Ideal for those needing ventilation or fluid release during wear.
- Without Drains: For unimpeded structural support.
Sizes:
Ranges vary by supplier, commonly including sizes like #0 (≈25 mm) up to #10 (≈75 mm) and beyond to ensure a suitable fit.
Suppliers & Availability:
- MedGyn offers convenient cube pessary catalogs with and without drains.
- MPM Medical Supply lists various sizes for the with-drain variant at around USD 130 each.
- Hayden Medical supplies both variations and covers advanced cases like third-degree prolapse.
- Gyneas (France) markets the Gyn&Cube as the most prescribed cube pessary, offered in multiple sizes and sold in pharmacies, with some regional reimbursement coverage.
4. How to Insert, Use, and Maintain a GyneCube Safely
Proper usage ensures the GyneCube is effective and comfortable:
Insertion:
Position yourself comfortably—standing with one leg elevated or lying with back support. Lubricate the pessary, compress it between thumb and index finger, and gently insert following the vaginal angle until positioned correctly.
Removal:
Avoid pulling directly on the cord—first break any suction by inserting a finger between pessary and vaginal wall. Compress and guide the cube out gently using the cord as a guide
Cleaning & Care:
- Clean after use with lukewarm water and mild soap.
- Autoclaving is possible for the silicone models.
- Replace every few months or based on medical advice to maintain hygiene and effectiveness.
5. Considerations, Risks, and When to Seek Medical Advice
While GyneCube offers meaningful relief, users should keep these points in mind:
- Medical Supervision Required: Its use should be guided by a healthcare provider, especially for fitting, size selection, and monitoring.
- Potential Discomfort or Complications: Watch for pain, vaginal discharge, infection, or irritation. If symptoms persist, the pessary should be removed, and medical advice sought immediately.
- Not a Definitive Cure: While GyneCube supports symptomatic management, surgical intervention may still be necessary in severe cases.
6. GyneCube vs. Other Pessary Types: Why Choose the Cube?
Pelvic support pessaries come in different forms—each serving unique needs. The GyneCube stands out in several ways:
Shape Advantage: Its cube or pyramidal design provides robust support and resistance to migration, making it effective for advanced prolapse.
Material Excellence: Silicone is safer and more comfortable than older materials.
Drainage Option: The “with drains” variant offers ventilation and fluid passage.
Size Flexibility: Broad sizing range accommodates a diverse patient population.
Accessibility: GyneCube devices are widely available through medical suppliers and pharmacies, and in some regions, like France, may be reimbursed.
When compared to other pessary types—like rings or donuts—the cube’s structure gives it a unique advantage for advanced or high-mobility cases.
Conclusion
The GyneCube pessary delivers a practical, non-surgical solution for managing pelvic prolapse and incontinence with comfort and autonomy. Its shape, material quality, and range of options make it a preferred choice among many OB-GYN professionals. Whether you’re a patient exploring treatment options or a clinician seeking reliable support tools, the GyneCube stands out with its balance of effectiveness, accessibility, and patient-centered design.