Combo Cup

Project ID: TECH-2023-28

Background

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) occurs when a pelvic organ slips from the normal position and down into the rectum or vagina. Patients can alleviate symptoms by inserting a pessary into the vagina to hold an organ in its normal position. This can be a great alternative to risky surgeries but is challenging or impossible to use during menstruation. Therefore, there is a need for a pessary device that can also function as a menstrual cup.

Invention Description

Bioengineers from the University of Toledo developed a device that is configured to combine the functionality of a pessary with a menstrual cup or disc. A ring-and-knob design provides support to the bladder to help menstruating people suffering from POP and/or urinary incontinence.

Applications

• Menstruation cup/disc
• Treatment of pelvic organ prolapse
• Urinary incontinence
• New moms after delivery

Advantages

• New option for patients to manage POP symptoms during menstruation  
• Silicone material is biocompatible, durable, hypoallergenic, and flexible/soft

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IP Status:                    Patent Pending