Why do I need to use Vaginal Dilators?
Brachytherapy may cause scarring and narrowing of the vagina, therefore pelvic care after treatment is recommended, which aims to reduce these problems. This can be done using vaginal dilators and pelvic floor exercises.
What does the dilator do?
The purpose of the dilator is to stretch and dilate (keep open) the vaginal walls making routine internal examination easier at your follow-up appointments. The other benefit of this is to make sexual intercourse more comfortable now and in the future.
Step by step guide
- Wash the dilators with hot soapy water ensuring all traces of soap have been washed away
- Assemble the dilator
- Lubricate the tip of the dilator and vaginal opening using the lubrication gel provided
- Find a comfortable relaxing position similar to inserting a tampon for example lying on your back with your knees bent
- Insert the dilator into the vagina as far as is comfortable for you; do not force the dilator
- Once comfortable rotate the dilator in a circular motion for five minutes
- As you remove the dilator move it side to side
- Clean the dilator with warm soapy water and dry
