Why You Shouldn’t Fear Using Them
What Are They
Vaginal dilators are cylindrical devices of varying lengths and widths, made from plastic or medical-grade silicone, designed to be inserted into the vagina to gently and painlessly stretch the vaginal tissue. They are a therapeutic option for addressing pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), which may result from menopause or other medical conditions linked to Pelvic Floor dysfunction.
How They Help
Vaginal dilators assist in retraining the pelvic floor muscles and the soft tissues inside and outside the vagina. They are part of a structured program to improve muscle strength, flexibility, and control.
Proper use of dilators can improve scar tissue following childbirth, gynecological cancer treatment, breast cancer therapy, gynecological surgeries, or radiation therapy.
They help relax and lengthen pelvic floor muscles, reducing pain during penetration. Additionally, they may decrease vaginal hypersensitivity to touch.
How They Work
Dilators gradually improve the elasticity and blood flow of the vagina, allowing penetration to become smoother, less painful, and more comfortable.
Although dilators are available online and without a prescription, they should ideally be used under the guidance, of a pelvic floor physiotherapist to effectively treat dyspareunia.
Choosing the Right Dilator
Dilators come in various sizes, starting with very slim designs comparable to a small finger.
The appropriate size depends on the individual’s condition and vaginal anatomy. The physiotherapist’s goal is to progress gradually from the smallest to the larger, thicker dilators without causing pain or psychological setbacks.
The material of dilators also varies and should be chosen based on personal preference, following discussions with the physiotherapist about the pros and cons of each material. Silicone dilators are often preferred for their comfort and compatibility with water-based lubricants.
How to Use Them
The process starts with short sessions of 1–10 minutes, gradually increasing according to the therapy protocol (e.g., Oxford University protocol). It may take weeks of practice with one size before moving to the next. If progress stalls despite weeks of effort, consulting a pelvic floor physiotherapist is essential for proper retraining. Dilators are designed for use in a private, comfortable, and relaxed setting.
Barriers to Use
Initially, inserting a dilator may feel uncomfortable. Social taboos or preconceived notions about their use can create psychological barriers, both for women and their partners. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help by explaining the benefits and demystifying the process.
Benefits of Vaginal Dilators
Vaginal dilators are safe and therapeutically effective. Most women who use them consistently and correctly experience significant pain relief, even complete resolution of pain during intercourse. Over time, they enhance blood flow and elasticity in the vaginal area, gently stretching and relaxing the tissue.
Possible Mild Side Effects
The goal is to use dilators without causing pain. Advancing too quickly can lead to muscle spasms in the pelvic floor, increasing pain. Mild discomfort is normal when starting exercises for the first time. In cases of vaginal dryness or fragile tissue, minor bleeding (e.g., light pink spotting) may occur.
In either case, it’s important to maintain communication with the physiotherapist for guidance on proper use.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
The time frame varies based on individual symptoms and the initial severity of the issue. Regular follow-ups with a physiotherapist are crucial for monitoring progress and adjusting the therapeutic approach.
Advice
Mind and body are interconnected, so to relax the muscles, it’s important to approach the exercises in a calm state without rushing. A positive and optimistic mindset can greatly influence the experience. Avoid scheduling exercises late in the evening, as fatigue may lead to procrastination.
Clarifications
In Greece, vaginal dilators are not commonly available in pharmacies and are often misunderstood as sexual devices. Breaking the stigma surrounding these invaluable therapeutic tools is essential for improving treatment outcomes for sexual dysfunction in women of all ages.
Types of Dilators
With or Without Vibration: Some dilators include vibration to enhance blood flow, commonly referred to as vibrators. However, not all dilators are vibrators. Choosing a vibrating dilator should be discussed with a pelvic floor physiotherapist.
Material and Size
Silicone sets typically include 5 to 8 sizes or may be purchased individually after a consultation.
The PT PRAXIS® Physiotherapy Center introduced pelvic floor physiotherapy to Greece in 2003 with the M.A.M.A. program (for women) and in 2015 with the Pelvic Floor Act program (for both women and men). These programs were designed to physiotherapeutically address all symptoms related to pelvic floor dysfunction.
