What are vaginal dilators?

Vaginal dilators are smooth, tube-shaped devices made of plastic or silicone. They often come in a set of different sizes. They are used to gently stretch and relax the pelvic floor muscles over time. This is called vaginal dilator therapy.

Why are they used?

Your healthcare provider may recommend a dilator if you have pain during penetrative vaginal sex (dyspareunia), during pelvic examinations, or with tampon use. This kind of pain can be caused by persistent or chronic pelvic pain conditions, such as:

• Vaginismus. This is a condition where the pelvic floor muscles contract or involuntarily tighten when an object (such as a tampon, speculum, or penis) is put into the vagina.
• Vestibulodynia. This is a pain condition that affects the vestibule, which is the entrance to the vagina. It makes any kind of vaginal penetration painful.
• Vaginal narrowing (stenosis) after cancer treatment.
• Vaginoplasty (surgery). This is surgery to create a vulva and vagina. A dilator helps to keep the size and shape of the vagina.

Using a dilator can help improve comfort, lower anxiety, and help your body adjust to penetration. This can help with sex and procedures like pelvic examinations. Pelvic health physiotherapy is often used along with a dilator for these conditions.

How do you use a dilator?

Your healthcare provider may recommend using a dilator 3 or 4 times a week, usually for 5 to 20 minutes each time. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about how to use it. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about how to use your dilator.

Follow these steps to use your dilator:

1. Wash your hands. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
2. Get comfortable. Go to a private, relaxed space where you can lie down. Put pillows under your knees to support your hips.
3. Pick a dilator. Start with a small one in your kit. You can use larger sizes over time or even during the same session.
4. Lubricate. Apply a lubricant to the dilator and to the opening of the vagina. This is to reduce friction. Don’t use petroleum jelly or oils. They can be hard to clean off the dilators.
5. Insert slowly. Gently guide the dilator into the vagina. Point it slightly toward your lower back. Go only as far as is comfortable.
6. Hold in place. Keep the dilator in place for about 5 to 10 minutes, or as directed by your healthcare provider. Breathe deeply. Try to relax your pelvic muscles. You may be told to move the dilator in and out or to move it in circles.
7. Remove and clean. Slowly remove the dilator. Then clean it with mild, unscented soap and warm water. Let it air dry fully. Store it in a clean container or pouch. Be sure to wash your dilator before and after each use. Don’t boil or microwave the dilators unless the manufacturer’s instructions say it’s safe to do so. Do not share your dilator with other people.
8. Size up as needed. As you get more comfortable, you may be advised to use larger sizes. This will help you gradually stretch the pelvic floor muscles.

Using a dilator takes time and patience. Progress may feel slow. But with consistent use, many people have less pain and more confidence about vaginal penetration. If you have concerns or questions, reach out to your healthcare provider. They are here to support you.

When should you contact your doctor?

Contact your healthcare provider, call Health Link at 811, or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have new or worse pain.
• You have bleeding from your vagina that does not stop.
• You have a vaginal discharge that smells bad.