Learning About Vaginal Dilators
Learn what vaginal dilators are, why and how they are used, and when you should contact your doctor.
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 muscles of the vagina over time. This is called vaginal dilator therapy.
Why are they used?
Your doctor may recommend a dilator if you have pain during vaginal sex (dyspareunia), during pelvic exams, or with tampon use. This kind of pain can be caused by things like:
- Vaginismus. This is tight vaginal muscles. It may be caused by stress, anxiety, or past trauma.
- Other genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorders (GPPPD).
- Vaginal atrophy. This is thinning, dryness, and loss of stretch in vaginal tissues. It's common during perimenopause and during and after menopause.
- Injury after surgery or from giving birth.
- Vaginal narrowing (stenosis) after cancer treatment.
- Health conditions at birth. These include a small vaginal opening or a vagina that is not fully developed.
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 exams.
Vaginal dilators are also used after vaginoplasty. This is surgery to create a vulva and vagina. A dilator helps to keep the size and shape of the vagina.
How do you use a dilator?
Your doctor may recommend using a dilator 3 or 4 times a week, usually for 5 to 20 minutes each time. Follow your doctor’s instructions about how to use it. Talk with your doctor if you have any concerns about how to use your dilator.
Follow these steps to use your dilator:
- Wash your hands. Scrub with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Get comfortable. Go to a private, relaxed space where you can lie down. Put pillows under your knees to support your hips.
- Pick a dilator. Start with a small one in your kit. You can use larger sizes over time or even during the same session.
- Lubricate. Apply a water-based 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.
- Insert slowly. Gently guide the dilator into the vagina. Point it slightly toward your lower back. Go only as far as is comfortable.
- Hold in place. Keep the dilator in place for about 5 to 10 minutes, or as directed by your doctor. 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.
- 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.
- Size up as needed. As you get more comfortable, you may be advised to use larger sizes. This will help you gradually stretch the vaginal 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 doctor. Your doctor is here to support you.
When should you contact your doctor?
Contact your doctor now 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.