Vaginal dilators are medical tools, typically made of plastic or medical-grade silicone, designed to gently stretch and desensitize vaginal tissues. They serve as a therapeutic aid for individuals experiencing vaginal tightness, discomfort, or difficulty with penetration. Their primary purpose is to gradually increase vaginal capacity and elasticity, facilitating comfort during activities like sexual intercourse or gynecological examinations.
Preparing for Use
Before beginning, establish a calm and private environment. Gather your dilator set, water-based lubricant, and a small towel. Ensure your hands and the dilator are clean. Consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing to calm your body and mind. Lie in a comfortable position, such as on your back with knees bent and legs spread, or on your side with knees bent.
Step-by-Step Guide to Insertion
Begin by selecting the smallest dilator or a size that feels snug but not painful. Apply water-based lubricant to the dilator tip and vaginal opening. Oil-based lubricants should not be used, as they can cause irritation or damage. Position yourself comfortably, such as on your back with knees bent and legs spread. Gently separate your labia.
Slowly guide the lubricated dilator towards your vagina, inserting it gently and aiming slightly downward towards your spine, similar to a tampon. The goal is slight tension, not sharp pain. If you encounter resistance or discomfort, pause, breathe deeply, and relax your pelvic floor muscles. Never force the dilator.
Once inserted to a comfortable depth, hold it for 10 to 15 minutes. Gently moving the dilator can further stretch tissues and improve flexibility. After the session, slowly and gently remove the dilator.
Maintaining Dilators and Progress
After each use, clean your dilator thoroughly with warm water and a mild, unscented soap. Rinse completely and air dry before storing.
Progression involves gradually moving to larger dilator sizes within your set. This step should only occur when the current size can be inserted and used comfortably. Approach this progression slowly and patiently, as rushing can cause setbacks. Consistency in your practice is beneficial for achieving results, with many finding daily or every-other-day use effective. Individual progress varies, and some days may require using a smaller size again.
Important Usage Tips and When to Seek Medical Advice
Always prioritize your comfort and listen to your body; never force a dilator if it causes sharp or persistent pain. While some initial discomfort can be normal as tissues stretch, severe pain indicates a need to stop and reassess. Progress is individual, and it is acceptable to take breaks or revert to a smaller size. Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider or a pelvic floor physical therapist. Seek medical advice if you experience increased pain, unusual bleeding, signs of infection like fever or unusual discharge, or if you are not making progress despite consistent use.