The purpose of a dilator is to help assist patients in stretching their own pelvic floor. This self treatment of the pelvic floor in conjunction with ongoing physical therapy can make a huge difference in progress.
Not all dilators are created equal!
There are different kinds of dilators.- Silicone
- Hard plastic
- Some can generate heat
- Others can vibrate!
- Wands
Your physical therapist will recommend if you would benefit from a dilator. This will help maintain progress made in your sessions.
Dilators are typically used in sets as your progress through sizes. The goal is to get to a size that is equivalent of your partner without discomfort.
How to use a dilator
Start by finding 15 minutes of calm, free time in your day. This can be difficult to do understandably, but working with a dilator isn't something you want to rush!
Complete your external stretches, a favorite being happy baby pose! This is a great stretch for the pelvic floor!
Make sure your dilator is clean, and use a generous amount of water based lubricant all over it. Once it's well lubricated, gently and slowly insert the dilator into the vagina (like a tampon), to the spot where you have discomfort. For some it might be more superficial (which correlates with pain during penetration) and others it might be deeper. Please note, these can also be used rectally, but if using both vaginally and rectally please clean and disinfect or keep separate sets of dilators completely.
Let the dilator rest at that point until it no longer feels as intense of a stretch (about 5-10 minutes) This should not be excruciating, but feel a little discomfort/stretch sensation. You can slightly angle the dilator to get more of the left/right side.
Finally, gently remove the dilator and wash with mild soap and water. Store in a clean plastic bag.
Favorite dilators
Intimate Rose Warming/Cooling Wand
Physical therapy for pelvic pain in Columbia and Baltimore, Maryland
If you have pelvic floor pain reach out to our office today!
