The present invention relates to an applicator for placing and positioning an object, such as a medical or veterinary device or treatment, within an orifice of a human or animal body. More specifically, the invention relates to an applicator for placing and positioning a pessary within the vagina and to kits comprising the applicator and a pre-loaded pessary. The invention also relates to methods of placing and positioning a pessary within the vagina and to methods for treating stress urinary incontinence in a woman in need thereof.