Can vaginal dilator therapy treat genitourinary syndrome of menopause?

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause can involve dryness, burning, irritation, pain during sex, and changes in urinary comfort. A dilator may gently maintain or improve tolerance of vaginal insertion when tissue sensitivity, narrowing, or pelvic-floor tension is part of the problem. It works through gradual, controlled stretching rather than by correcting the hormone changes behind GSM.

A clinician may discuss moisturisers, lubricants, pelvic-floor therapy, or local hormonal treatment according to your symptoms and health history. New bleeding, sores, discharge, or persistent pain needs assessment before assuming GSM is the only explanation.

Book an assessment with a gynaecologist or pelvic-floor physiotherapist. If dilators are recommended, use the smallest comfortable size with appropriate lubricant, proceed slowly, and keep the practice gentle. Do not force insertion. Tell the clinician if dryness makes the device painful, because the tissue may need treatment before stretching is comfortable. Discuss urinary urgency, burning, or recurrent symptoms separately.

Stop and contact a clinician if use causes bleeding, sharp pain, tearing, burning that persists, or unusual discharge. Seek urgent care for severe pelvic pain, fever, heavy bleeding, or feeling faint. Arrange a review for symptoms that continue despite a careful routine, since another vaginal, cervical, pelvic, or urinary condition may be present.

Which GSM symptoms could dilators help? Do I need treatment for dryness first? Would pelvic-floor therapy or local medicine suit me? How often should I practise, and which symptoms require a review?