Vaginal Dilators

What are Vaginal Dilators?

Vaginal dilators are cylinder shaped with a narrow tip. They are made from either silicone, rubber, or plastic. They come in sets ranging in sizes. They help to stretch the vaginal walls gently and gradually.

Why are Vaginal Dilators used?

Vaginal dilators can be used for many reasons. Vaginal dilators help people who have vaginal narrowing from scars or radiation. Vaginal dilators can also help women with pelvic floor dysfunction and pain. For some women, fear of pain during intercourse, past gynecological surgery, or trauma can cause vaginal spasms and tightening. Vaginal dilators can improve tolerance with penetration and keep the vaginal walls elastic.

How do you use Vaginal Dilators?

Start with the smallest size comfortable and gradually work your way up in size. Use a lubricant to help with inserting the dilator. Begin by finding a place where you can relax and comfortably insert the dilator. You might try lying on your back. Bend your knees and put your feet flat on the bed or floor. You could also try lying with your knees out to the sides with your feet together forming a diamond. Use pillows to help support your legs and body. Apply lubricant on the dilator and to your vaginal opening. Slowly insert the dilator in your vagina, but do not force it. Insert the dilator until you feel tightness or discomfort and stop if it hurts. If you are not able to insert the dilator all the way, don’t worry. It will take time to increase the length and size of the dilator. Once the dilator is in a comfortable position, relax your pelvic muscles. Gently move the dilator in and out to help lengthen the vaginal wall. Rotate the dilator in wide circles to help extend the vaginal wall. Allow the dilator to stretch your vaginal walls. Increase the length of time you keep the dilator in place each time. Once you can leave the dilator in for 10-15 minutes comfortably, you can move up to the next size. The goal is to be able to insert the largest size, or the size you and your provider agreed on, without any discomfort.

After each insertion, clean the vaginal dilator with soap and water. You may have some light vaginal bleeding after using the dilators. This will also get better over time. If the bleeding does not stop or becomes heavy, please call your provider.

When do I stop using Vaginal Dilators?

Keep using the vaginal dilators to keep your vaginal walls elastic and maintain the benefit from the dilators. Discuss when to stop or decrease the use of the dilators with your gynecologist. 

Vaginal dilators have helped many women. Talk to your gynecologist if you have questions or would like more information.