What do you immediately think of when you hear the word dilation? Perhaps, in our lives, we have heard this word most often used with eye procedures or childbirth. The definition according to Google is " the action or condition of becoming or being made wider, larger or more open".

Vaginal dilators are a standard treatment for Vaginismus and Atrophic Vaginitis. Badd Kitty carries a variety of sets that can help with treatment for these disorders but what are they and who do they typically affect?

Vaginismus is a muscle spasm in the pelvic floor muscles. This disorder can make penetration painful, difficult or even impossible. It can also affect one's ability to endure a gynecological exam or even insert a tampon.

There are two types of Vaginismus. The first is called Primary Vaginismus. That’s when vaginal penetration has never been achieved. Then there is Secondary Vaginismus. Secondary Vaginismus is when vaginal penetration was once achieved but is no longer possible. This can be due to trauma or gynecologic surgery.

Symptoms can include involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles, fear of penetration, decreased sexual desire, contractions of the vaginal muscle and/or a burning or stinging pain when anything is inserted into the vagina.

Is Vaginismus treatable?

The answer is yes. Treatments include physical therapy, vaginal dilators, sex therapy and counseling. This disorder should be diagnosed by a trained medical professional.

Atrophic Vaginitis is a condition where the lining of the vagina gets thinner and drier. This results in itching, burning and pain during intercourses. The condition can also cause UTIs and frequent urination. It is caused by a reduction in estrogen, normally following menopause. Others symptoms include decreased natural lubrication during sex, light bleeding after sex, pain during intercourse, vaginal dryness, genital itching and increased UTIs.

Other occasions where Atrophic Vaginitis can occur are after childbirth, with breastfeeding, after hysterectomy, as a side effect to chemotherapy or as a side effect to using anti-estrogen medication to treat uterine fibroids or endometriosis. This is a common occurrence for many women and can be treated with topical treatments, hormone replacement therapy and vaginal dilators.

How can dilators help?

Vaginal dilators, also called vaginal trainers are used to restore depth, width and elasticity of the vaginal canal to allow for penetration. This can include sexual activity, tampon use, or medical exams. In many cases these sets are used to progressively improve the mobility of the vaginal tissue while learning to relax the pelvic floor muscles. Consistency and routine practice helps to decrease pain as well as relaxation techniques.

This is a sensitive topic for many women . An open talk with your sexual health expert can be very helpful. They can share many " tips from the trade" . One such tip is using a CBD lubricant. CBD provides pain relief  and can help with relaxation. Clitorial toys such as the Womanizer Liberty, can help women to focus on their pelvic floor muscles and pleasure while using their dilator sets. Massage candles can help to soften the mood, give off a sensual fragrance, sometimes containing pheromones, and help make the process feel more intimate and less medical.

Resources:

intimaterose.com/pages/dilators-for-vaginal-atrophy-treatment

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