What is Vaginal Dilator Therapy?
Vaginal dilator therapy will help to prevent your vagina from becoming too narrow. It can also help keep your vagina elastic.
Here is how it will help:
- Your healthcare provider or physical therapist will assess a full pelvic exam (when a doctor or nurse looks at your vulva and internal reproductive organs)
- Make pelvic exams more comfortable
- Lessen discomfort with sexual activity
How long does a patient do vaginal dilator therapy?
You can do vaginal dilator therapy for as long as you need to. The amount of time you will need to do vaginal dilator therapy depends on many factors. You can discuss the length of time that’s right for you with your healthcare provider or physical therapist.
What medical conditions utilize dilator therapy?
Common conditions among women that benefit from the use vaginal dilators include dyspareunia (painful sex), vaginal changes associated with menopause, muscles spasms of pelvic floor muscles associated with pain or difficulty inserting a tampon, vaginal stenosis. Dilator therapy is commonly used after pelvic radiation treatments.
What are vaginal trainers or dilators?
Vaginal trainers or dilators consist of a set of plastic or silicone round-tipped cylinders that range in size from small (the size of a little finger) to large (the diameter of a fully erect penis).
They are used in conjunction with physical therapy to restore depth, width, and elasticity of vagina to allow for intercourse, tampon use, medical exams, as well as other sexual health purposes.
Who do I need to contact if I think I need Vaginal Dilator Therapy?
Dr. Linda Kuserk is a Physical Therapist at FYZICAL Therapy and Balance Center of Rockville that specializes in women’s health and is an APTA certified pelvic floor therapist.
If you feel that you are a candidate for Vaginal Dilator Therapy, the use of vaginal dilators or would like to have guidance about using your vaginal dilators, give us a call at (301) 948-4395 to schedule an appointment or help answer any questions you may have.