The following general information is adapted from patient education resources from the Cleveland Clinic and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. This information is not medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider, especially if you are using dilators for pain, tightness, discomfort with penetration, pelvic floor concerns, postpartum changes, menopause-related changes, or another medical concern.
Begin with the smallest size or the size recommended by your healthcare provider. Apply a generous amount of water-based lubricant to the dilator and the vaginal opening, then insert slowly while breathing deeply and relaxing your pelvic floor muscles. Dilator use should be gradual and should not be painful.
Once inserted, allow your body time to adjust before gently moving the dilator, rotating it, or applying any pressure. Move up to the next size only when the current size feels comfortable. Progress may be slow, and that is completely normal.
Stop using the dilator and contact a healthcare provider if you experience pain, bleeding, unusual discharge, irritation that does not improve, or any symptoms that concern you.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic, “Vaginal Dilators: Purpose, Types & How To Use”; American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Your Sexual Health”.
