What does vaginal dilator therapy treat?

Dilators are graduated smooth devices used to introduce gentle, controlled stretching. They may be included in care for Vaginismus, Vulvodynia, or Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause, and may support people with Pain During Sex. The aim is to build tolerance and reduce guarding through gradual practice, relaxation, and a sense of control. Dilators do not treat every cause of pelvic pain, and they should not be used to push through sharp or worsening pain.

A pelvic health clinician can help select a size, position, lubricant, pace, and practice schedule. Start only when the underlying cause and any infection or skin problem have been assessed. Slow breathing and relaxed pelvic muscles can make insertion easier. Stop if there is bleeding, sharp pain, numbness, or marked irritation, and tell your clinician what happened. Progress is guided by comfort rather than a fixed timetable.

Contact a clinician before continuing if pain is severe, symptoms are worsening, or insertion causes bleeding that does not settle. Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding, fever, foul-smelling discharge with pelvic pain, or sudden severe pain. A new symptom may need a different assessment instead of more stretching.

What is causing my insertion pain or tightness? Is dilator therapy suitable for my diagnosis? Which lubricant and size should I use? How often should I practise, and when should I stop or contact you?