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Do I Need Dilators After Breast Cancer? Yes and Here’s Why
If you are undergoing breast cancer treatment – in particular, chemotherapy or endocrine therapy – you probably have concerns about the impact it will have on your body. Undergoing such therapies can be very traumatic for the body, which makes it a challenging process. Unfortunately, for some women there are after effects that also need to be taken into consideration. Many women find that they need to use dilators after breast cancer, but they are often unaware of this potentiality at the start. Since the cancer affects the breast area, it may not occur to you that the after effects can manifest in other areas of the body. However, there is a high instance of vaginal issues in women who have undergone medical treatment for breast cancer. Statistics show that up to 70% of women need to use dilators after breast cancer treatment. This article aims to shed light on the situation so that you can prepare for this possibility in advance. Why do you need dilators after breast cancer? You may need to use vaginal dilators after cancer therapy because some treatments can cause what is known as atrophic vaginitis. Chemotherapy and endocrine therapy can lead to dysfunction in the reproductive system. For some the result is ovarian failure, which is why women may become infertile after their treatment. For many others, the result is atrophic vaginitis (also called vaginal atrophy), which is something that can happen naturally to post-menopausal women once their estrogen levels decline. Vaginal atrophy may affect up to 50% of women after the menopause, so it’s certainly not uncommon. Post-menopausal breast cancer survivors are even more likely to develop atrophic vaginitis though – the statistics indicate that it will affect 70% of women in this category. After chemotherapy treatment, for example, the estrogen that normally circulates and reaches the urinary and vaginal receptors ceases to do so, which essentially induces early menopause. This can happen even if you’re below 40 years of age. The symptoms of atrophic vaginitis are likely to necessitate the use of vaginal dilators after your cancer treatment ends. Symptoms include vaginal dryness, irritation of the vulva area, burning and soreness, inflammation, dyspareunia (painful sex) or bleeding after sex, vaginal stenosis (shortening or constriction of the birth canal), thinning of the vaginal walls or skin, discharge, urinary incontinence and pruritus. Using vaginal dilators after breast cancer You may find that you have a few of the above symptoms of vaginal atrophy if you’ve undergone one of the breast cancer treatments mentioned above. If you have vaginal stenosis, for example, sex (or any kind of penetration) can become difficult. It is necessary to use vaginal dilators after your breast cancer treatment is finished so that you can maintain the shape and size of your birth canal. Dyspareunia is also a common side effect, so vaginal dilators for pelvic floor physical therapy can help you to become accustomed to the sensation of penetration at your own pace. Another issue for cancer survivors in the womens health arena is atrophic vaginitis or vaginal atropgy which is that any of the aforementioned symptoms might lead to fear of penetration, which in turn can develop into the condition known as vaginismus. Naturally this disrupts your sex life, and it may be necessary to overcome the fear of penetration with vaginal dilators. Vaginal Dilators are often recommended for breast cancer survivors as they stretch out the birth canal gradually, which aids in the restoration of normal function and sexual habits. As a result, you are likely to overcome sexual problems much more quickly. Pelvic floor physical therapists also use vaginal dilators as part of their treatment plan for women with vaginal atrophy, which indicates both their efficacy and safety. In case you’re wondering whether vaginal dilators really work, let us put your mind at ease. We’ll also be happy to answer any questions you may have about using our dilators after breast cancer, so don’t be afraid to ask for product advice any time. VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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Do Silicone Dilators work? Is medical grade plastic better?
Update: We no longer sell Silicone dilators due to our magnetic being far superior. The answer is: not as good as the magnetic medical grade plastic dilators. When shopping for the best dilators, it can be hard to choose the right one for your needs. Also, you need to know how to correctly use vaginal dilators. VuVa Vaginal Dilator company, located in Sarasota, FL, has now helped over 125,000 women all over the globe with their dilator needs. Do you need plastic or silicone dilators? What sizes do I need? How do I use them? VuVa can help. Our Dilators are made with 100% medical grade plastic using FDA approved colors and ingredients. VuVa™ Magnetic Dilators are safe, phthalate free, hypoallergenic and suitable for those with latex allergies. Do not use silicone based lubricants with VuVa™ Magnetic Dilators. Do I need plastic or silicone dilators? There are two main types of vaginal dilators, silicone and plastic. We have listed below some information to help you decide on what type of vaginal dilator you need. We actually stopped selling silicone due to our patented magnetic dilators working so much better. The silicone also attracted a lot of dust, which the plastic do not. VuVa Vaginal Dilators vs. Placebo Dilators: A Double Blind Placebo Study Eighty percent (80%) of study subjects reported a decrease in overall pain after using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators. Subjects using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators experienced an average thirty percent (30%) decrease in pain levels on a standardized tampon test, which is a way to clinically measure pain associated with sexual intercourse. The cotton swab test evaluates eleven (11) different locations of the vulvar vestibule for pain. Eighty percent (80%) of the study subjects reported a decrease in the total number of locations after using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators. Subjects using the VuVa™ magnetic vaginal dilators experienced an average twenty eight percent (28%) decrease in pain levels using a standardized cotton swab test, which is a non-invasive measure of vaginal pain. Overall anxiety associated with vaginal penetration is significantly decreased in all subjects. Subjects report feeling more confident about their sexual health in the future after completing the study. Subjects report that VuVa dilator therapy is not a painful treatment. For Full Study CLICK HERE How to pick your Vaginal Dilator sizes: When shopping for dilators, it might be hard to know what size vaginal dilators you need. If you ask your physician or pelvic floor physical therapist, they should be able to tell you what size you need to start your pelvic floor therapy with. Some people do not need the entire set and some people do. When it comes to our size vaginal dilators, there are seven to choose from. We have one of the smallest vaginal dilators on the market and one of the largest. The smallest dilator, the Size 1, is comparable to a pencil and the Size 2 is comparable to a women's pinky finger. If you can get a larger tampon applicator in with ease, you may want to start with a Size 3 or 4 dilator if your muscles are very tight, or you have a lot of atrophy pain. If you are sexually active, you might not need the smaller dilators and starting with the Size 4 or 5 and moving up would be best for your home therapy plan. You can also purchase the size dilator that is comparable in circumference to your partner if you are sexually active. As dilator therapy can be uncomfortable, you do not want to be in extreme pain when you are dilating. If you are, then you need to move down one dilator size. On a pain scale of 1-10, you do not want to go over a 3-4 pain level when dilating. Now, when you first put the dilator in, it can be very painful, but that pain should subside after a few minutes. You don't want to be in extreme pain the entire time during your dilator therapy. Vaginal Dilators: Directions & Sizes - How to Use Dilation Products - Vuva Dilator Company If sexual activity is painful due to a pelvic pain condition or pelvic disorder, use dilators at least 5-7 days per week. Take your time and breath. If you can only do a minute our two, that’s fine. Work your way up slowly. It will help with the fear of penetration and relax muscles. These dilators only make things better. VuVa has changed thousands of lives. We are in this together. Directions Before Using your VuVa™ Vaginal Dilators Wash dilators with a mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Let the dilators air dry. Vanicream Bar soap is a good option to clean dilators with. To Get Started In a private and comfortable place, lay on your back and put both knees up with your feet on the bed (no wider than your hips) or lay on your side and pull your legs up with a pillow between your knees. Lubricate the smallest VuVa™ Vaginal Dilator and vagina canal opening generously with a lubricant your choice. IMPORTANT: Do not use petroleum jelly (e.g., Vaseline). Slippery Stuff is water based and does not cause irritation. Keep all the dilators within reach. Finding the right size VuVa™ Vaginal Dilator can be tricky. If you find that you can only tolerate the tip going inside when using the smallest dilator, that’s ok and is not uncommon. However, if that is the case, it may be best that you start with the exercises (See the instructions below). Please do not force the dilator inside. Using gentle pressure, insert the smaller round end of the smallest dilator into your vagina. Make sure that the dilator shaft is inserted as deeply as is comfortable for you. Do not insert entire dilator -- leave the larger, round, flat end outside of vaginal opening. If there’s no discomfort (you can put the little one inside, squeeze and let go around it on the inside like you’re holding back gas and pee and take it out without any pain or irritation – not even a little bit), you need to use the next size bigger. You’re looking for minimal pain when you put the dilator in the vagina (pain level not more than a 1-2/10, with 0/10 being no pain and 10/10 the worst pain ever) —the type that you might just describe as “annoying” or “uncomfortable.” Moderate pain (pain levels 4-6/10) is too much, and severe pain (pain levels 7-10) should be avoided. Once you’ve found the proper size, please use your dilator 5-20 minutes twice/day. When you can actively insert and remove the dilator as well as contract and relax around it with no discomfort, move up to the next size. IMPORTANT - WOMEN: Do not walk around with dilator inserted. Do not use dilators during sexual intercourse. Do not sleep with dilator inserted. Wash the vaginal dilators after use with mild, fragrance-free soap and warm water. Let them air dry. Use a VuVa™ Vaginal Dilator comparable to your partners size 20 minutes before intercourse to relax tight muscles and bring blood flow to the area. You have now created a relaxed environment for penetration. How much will I need to use my dilator when I reach my desired size? Everyone is different. You need to be having intercourse or dilating to keep the muscles from atrophying as you get older. If you are having intercourse without pain more frequently, you might not need to dilate as much, or at all. Your body will let you know if you need to continue, and how much you need. Some have more severe atrophy than others, so let your body guide you. If you have Vaginismus/Vulvodynia nerve pain or tightness, you might have to use it every time before intercourse, but some others may not need to use it at all once the pain subsides. Everyone has different nerve pain pathways and triggers that cause good and bad days. Why would I need a Vaginal Dilator? If you have painful intercourse due to a pelvic pain condition, pelvic floor physical therapy with vaginal dilators is a safe and beneficial home treatment for the following conditions: Vulvodynia Vulvar Vestibulitis Vaginismus Dyspareunia Pelvic Radiation Therapy Menopause Vaginal Stenosis Vaginal Atrophy Pudendal Neuralgia Vaginal Agenesis If you have painful penetration and do not keep relaxing the muscles during intercourse or dilator therapy, the muscles can then become very tense and cause your condition to become worse. You may start to associate penetration with pain. Each time you try to penetrate, your muscles will then tighten up causing more pain. Dilating on your own, in the convenience of your own home, is an effective way to keep muscles working and blood flowing to the area for healing. Dilator therapy also creates blood flow and can help with vaginal dryness by creating natural lubrication. How much do Dilators Cost? VuVa Silicone Dilators start at $26. You can buy single dilators or you can buy the full set. Visit our Dilator Store Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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Can Vaginismus be Cured? Yes it Can, and Here’s How…
Vaginismus is a restrictive and frustrating condition that affects a lot of women, for various reasons. The condition is both painful and uncomfortable, since the muscles of the vagina are apt to tighten up and spasm. This happens automatically at the prospect of any form of penetration, so it thwarts attempts at sexual intercourse, gynecological examination and even inserting tampons. Many women are left wondering, can vaginismus be cured? Fortunately, the answer is, yes it can. Women with vaginismus often suffer in silence, but unfortunately this tends to worsen the problem over time. If you have vaginismus, it may be down to physical or psychological reasons, if not both. Vaginismus symptoms include burning and stinging pains, uncomfortable muscle spasms, and an inability to insert anything into the vagina. Vaginismus symptoms can vary in severity, but in all instances, a cure should be sought out. It may seem that due to the contractions in (and constriction of) the vagina, this is an impossible mission… but rest assured, it really isn’t. See Product See Product See Product Here’s what you can do to cure vaginismus: Vaginismus cure #1: Treating it psychologically Vaginismus can initially be triggered by deep-seated fears in the subconscious, or even in the conscious mind. However, understanding why this is happening doesn’t mean you can convince your body to react any differently. The first step is to try and figure out why your symptoms of vaginismus started. This could mean enlisting the help of a sexual health therapist or counselor adept at working through sexual traumas and insecurities. Here are some of the main psychological reasons for vaginismus: A history of sexual abuse Negative ideas about sex (e.g. religious or familial issues) Damaging relationship dynamics with partners Low self-esteem/insecurities around sex or body image Dealing with vaginismus psychologically means that you can break the cycle of negative thought patterns that perpetuate your vaginismus symptoms. It may be emotionally uncomfortable to unearth underlying trauma, but this can be a powerful path to healing. It may not happen overnight, either, but with time and effort, you can cure vaginismus this way – even if this needs to be combined with physical treatment. Vaginismus cure #2: Treating it with physical therapy Often enough, vaginismus can be cured with pelvic floor physical therapy. This form of vaginismus treatment includes stretching the pelvic floor muscles, which can help the muscles to stop spasming and clamping shut. Since the pelvic floor muscles support your pelvic organs, they are part of the process of sexual arousal and orgasm. By relaxing these muscles, you are likely to have a much better time in bed! Here’s what your pelvic floor physical therapist might introduce as part of your program: Trigger point release Biofeedback Pelvic floor stretches and exercises Visceral mobilization E-stim Vaginal Dilators (pictured below) are used to stretch and relax muscles. You can usually see a difference in 2 weeks. If you have never attended a pelvic floor therapy session before, here’s what to expect. Don’t worry: your therapist will be sensitive to your emotional states and physical needs, so you’ll be in safe hands. See Product See Product See Product Vaginismus cure #3: Treating it using vaginal dilators Women use vaginal dilators to stretch the vaginal muscles and get them used to the sensation of penetration. Eventually when they are able to relax enough, they will be able to say that vaginal dilators cured their vaginismus! We have heard of this time and time again from our happy customers, so we fully recommend it. Women report being cured from vaginismus after just a few weeks or months of using vaginal dilators. As they become more accustomed to each size of dilator, they are eventually able to tolerate and even enjoy full penetration during sex. If you’re thinking of using dilators to cure vaginismus, we recommend trying magnetic vaginal dilators first and foremost. This is why: Magnetic dilators can lengthen the soft tissues of the vagina They relax ligaments and vaginal muscles Neodymium magnets are known to have a calming effect on nerves Neodymium magnets boost blood flow to the vagina, reducing pain Click here to start home treatment for your Vaginismus There are other physical options for curing vaginismus too, so try those out if you’re keen to find a solution fast. Often a combined approach works better! Lastly, don’t worry about using vaginal dilators; you’ll be able to go at your own pace, in your own time and space… so there’s no pressure, and this is a big part of the reason dilators can help to cure vaginismus. We wish you luck in finding the best cure for your vaginismus – and don’t forget to take a look through our blog for many more insights and tips on this condition. You will get there! Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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Can You Use CBD for Vulvodynia?
Who could blame her? Any woman with vulvodynia wants shot of this awful pain, as soon as possible. Vulvodynia can be incredibly uncomfortable, plus it gets in the way of intimacy with partners, which is frustrating and even depressing. There are various approaches to treating vulvodynia, but no one-size-fits-all treatment. However, CBD (and abbreviation of Cannabidiol), is one of the closest things to a cure-all we know of… but can you use CBD for vulvodynia? Absolutely. Our ancestors have long been using cannabis to treat pelvic pain, but it is only recently being embraced in modern society. First, let’s take a look at what CBD is: CBD is just one of more than a hundred naturally occurring compounds found in hemp (or marijuana). Hemp is the term generally used to classify varieties of cannabis with 0.3% or less THC content (the compound that gets you stoned), although the difference between cannabis and hemp is more complex than just that. Don’t worry about getting high while using CBD for vulvodynia; it’s easier to get CBD products with little to no THC content, since those are legal, whereas THC is often not. CBD oil products are made from high-CBD, low-THC hemp. Why use CBD for vulvodynia? There are a few reasons for using CBD to treat vulvodynia. Firstly, CBD is famous for its pain relieving qualities, and no area of the body is exempt from that. It is also known to reduce anxiety, which is an issue for many women with vulvodynia. They have negative associations with sexual intercourse because of the pain they feel during penetration. The benefits don’t end there, either. CBD can relax muscles, which helps vulvodynia because when you anticipate sexual pain, your muscles are likely to contract. This can worsen the pain of vulvodynia, or lead to vaginismus. If you insert a CBD suppository or apply CBD products to the vulva, you may be surprised at just how effective the relaxation and pain relief is. To summarize, CBD helps with the following vulvodynia symptoms: Pain Inflammation Anxiety Tight muscles The CBD can desensitize the nerves in the genitals, as well as reducing any inflammation present (which can be a side effect of vulvodynia in some women). CBD limits your body’s ability to feel pain signals, but also works on pain by targeting the same enzymes Ibuprofin targets, thus reducing prostaglandin production. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that promote pain, inflammation and fever. Why else should you use CBD for vulvodynia? It’s an aphrodisiac! Here’s another major USP for CBD. Cannabinoids actually work as an aphrodisiac for many women, and when applied directly to the vulva, can increase sexual pleasure. That’s because when applied to the skin, phytocannabinoids increase blood flow to the area, which is what happens when you get aroused naturally. Whether you smoke a bit of cannabis or apply some oil topically, CBD oil or cream is a wonderful addition to your sex life. Note that if you smoke cannabis, you’re going to feel the effects of THC too. However, if you apply a CBD product to your skin, you are unlikely to experience any psychoactive effects. Can You Use CBD for Vulvodynia? Yes… and Here’s Why it Works Strains containing a lot of CBD are the best for inflammation reduction, and they won’t get you stoned. Some feel that the best strains for pain relief are those with both CBD and THC content. If you do want a product containing THC (as many with chronic pain do), even one with less than 6% THC content will still help to calm and relax you. Indica strains are believed to be physically sedating, perfect for relaxing with a movie or as a nightcap before bed. Sativas are said to provide invigorating, uplifting cerebral effects that pair well with physical activity, social gatherings, and creative projects. Hybrids are thought to fall somewhere in between, offering a balance of indica and sativa effects. Vaginal Dilators paired with CBD is a great treatment option. Vuva Vaginal Dilators sets are used to regenerate vaginal capacity, expand the vaginal walls, add elasticity to the tissues, and to allow for comfortable sexual intercourse. VuVa Magnetic Dilators are smooth lightweight plastic, that come in a variety of graduated sizes. Using Dilators with CBD maximizes your pelvic floor physical therapy. To shop dilators click here. You may find this article on CBD for pelvic pain useful if you would like more information on the topic. We hope that you will be able to reap the rewards of CBD for your vulvodynia… good luck, and don’t forget to check out our blog for plenty of other information on vulvodynia and similar conditions. VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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Do Vaginal Dilators Really Work?
Do I need one? If you’re trying to overcome a medical condition in the pelvic area, or the after-effects of treatment for it, you might be asking yourself an important question: “Do vaginal dilators really work?” Well, vaginal dilators are used as a standard treatment for a whole range of problems in the vagina, from vaginismus to vaginal atrophy. In many instances, a pelvic floor physical therapist or radiotherapy Doctor will prescribe the use of vaginal dilators - sometimes ongoing. These healthcare providers are well aware that vaginal dilators really work, and there is much anecdotal evidence to support this too. Which conditions do vaginal dilators work on? Below are some of the most common medical conditions that vaginal dilators work on. At times it is necessary to dilate the vagina for relief from the symptoms of: Vaginismus Vaginal atrophy Vaginal agenesis Vaginal stenonis Vulvar dermatoses Superficial dyspareunia Provoked vestibulodynia Post-radiation adhesions High-tone pelvic floor dysfunction Psychogenic dyspareunia (used as a deconditioning therapy) There are also other conditions of the pelvic floor area that can be helped by using vaginal dilators. If you are having pelvic floor physical therapy for any reason, you may find that your therapist prescribes vaginal dilator therapy within the sessions or at home. Aside from supplementing pelvic floor physical therapy, vaginal dilators work as a supplement to the following therapies: Sexual therapy Psychotherapy Minimally-absorbed local vaginal estrogen therapy Intravaginal muscle relaxants How do vaginal dilators work? Vaginal dilators are smooth cylindrical objects made of material that is safe to insert into the vagina. They come in various sizes and weights, and are usually made from silicone, plastic, rubber, or glass. They range from the size of a pencil to the size of an erect penis, approximately. Vaginal dilators work by restoring the capacity of the vagina (birth canal and/or vaginal opening). The aim is to expand your vagina in both depth and width, as well as to increase the tissue elasticity. Dilators encourage blood flow to the area – especially dilators containing neodymium magnets. When the vagina is able to open up more, however gradually, you will find that you can have more comfortable sexual intercourse, or even just necessary clinical examinations. How do you know if vaginal dilator therapy has worked? Since the aim of using vaginal dilators is to restore proper function to the vagina, you can consider it a success when you have been able to resume normal, comfortable sexual activities or examinations. It may take anything from a few weeks to several months for vaginal dilator therapy to work, and some Doctors recommend use ongoing. To give you an example, this study demonstrated that each patient in the case studies had successfully resumed sexual activity after several months of dilator therapy, sometimes when used in combination with other medical interventions. Furthermore, this study saw good results with sufferers of vaginal stenosis after radiotherapy. In addition, sexual researchers Masters and Johnson advocated vaginal dilator use for female patients with sexual dysfunction so that they could “interrupt the cycle of pain–fear–muscle spasm–more pain, and to build confidence in the privacy of the marital bedroom.” To put your mind at ease, here at Vuvatech we also have plenty of testimonials from happy customers who have decided that our vaginal dilators really work. Feel free to check those out and ask us any questions you have!
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Can I Use a Vaginal Dilator After Radiation?
For women receiving pelvic radiation therapy, your healthcare professional may recommend that you use a vaginal dilator to improve vaginal elasticity. Vaginal dilators make examinations more comfortable, ease discomfort during sexual activity, and help stretch scar tissue caused by pelvic radiation. It's essential that you consider dilator therapy a vital part of your health maintenance once radiation therapy ends. Table of Contents Why are vaginal dilators needed? What is a vaginal dilator? When should I use a dilator? How should I use a dilator after radiation? Why are vaginal dilators needed? According to the American Cancer Society, radiotherapy uses high energy rays (such as gamma rays or x-rays) to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is the most common treatment for cervical cancer. The high energy rays may kill the cancer cells, but radiotherapy treatment could cause healthy vaginal tissue to become irritated and sore. As the abrasions heal, they form scar tissue on the pelvic floor. The scar tissue can make the vagina shorter and narrower. Once this happens, sexual intercourse, gynecological examinations, and even using tampons can cause searing and stinging pain. Vaginal dilators help stretch the vaginal canal, helping to widen and lengthen the vagina. What is a vaginal dilator? VuVa vaginal dilators are smooth plastic devices similar in shape to a tampon. They come in different sizes with the smallest about the size of a finger. It's recommended to begin with the smallest size. Vaginal dilators help stretch the vagina and soften scar tissue by increasing blood and breaking up scar tissue. When should I use the dilator? One of the most frequently asked questions is, when should I use the dilator? Health professionals recommend starting treatment four weeks after your last radiation session. This timeline will depend on whether you're experiencing any pain from the cancer treatment and the recommendation of your doctor. A healthy sex life can replace dilator use, but sexual intercourse should be consistent (3-5 times per week). How should I use a dilator after radiation? The use of a dilator after radiation is easier than you think. It’s recommended you find a private space where you won’t be interrupted. Lay on your back with your knees bent, and legs open wide. Rub water-based lubricant on the vaginal dilator. Slowly insert the dilator along the vaginal wall. Move back and forth to help stretch the vagina. Leave the dilator inside for 5-10 minutes at first, gradually moving up to 20 minutes per session. What can I expect from using the dilator? Stretching the vagina takes time and consistent dilator use. It may take 8-12 weeks to increase the vaginal opening and ease scar tissue. For some women, there's a period of adjustment before it becomes routine. At first, there may be some bleeding after using the dilator or having intercourse. This is normal but speak to your doctor if the pain is excessive. Using a vaginal dilator after radiation is a conventional treatment for women's health. It will not only help to remove scar tissue, but also improve the overall quality of one's life. ______________ This post was informed by or approved by staff, writings or colleagues of Dr. Robert J. Echenberg, MD is an Obstetrician-gynecologist in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Other VuVa Helpful Links: 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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Benefits of using Vaginal Dilators for Vaginal Atrophy Treatment and other Pelvic Pain Conditions
Vaginal dilators are an effective and safe tool to help women with pelvic floor therapy, painful intercourse, and other vaginal health issues. These non-invasive devices come in the form of a kit containing multiple sizes of dilators; they have been used for decades to help with muscles spasms in the pelvis, reduce pain during sexual intercourse, and support recovery after surgery or childbirth. Trusted Since 2014 The VuVa Magnetic Dilator Kits are some of the most trusted on the market due to their unique design which includes neodymium magnets. The magnets provide therapeutic benefits that traditional dilators do not offer, such as improved blood circulation to the area and relief from spasms or muscle contractions. This helps increase comfort during use since the magnets help create blood flow and natural lubrication. Additionally, the VuVa Magnetic Dilator Kits are made with medical grade BPA free plastic—which is safe and non-toxic—so they can be used without fear of irritation or adverse side effects. List of some Pelvic Pain Conditions that VuVa Dilators help: - Vulvodynia - Vaginismus - Vaginal Stenosis - Postpartum Care - Pelvic Floor Dysfunction - Scar Tissue & Adhesions - Interstitial Cystitis What is Vaginal Atrophy and how do dilators help? Vaginal atrophy is a common problem for women in menopause, caused by a decline in estrogen levels. This can lead to vaginal dryness and other issues such as painful intercourse, pelvic floor dysfunction, and urinary tract infections (UTI’s). Magnetic dilator kits are an excellent tool to help combat these symptoms because they naturally increase blood flow to the area while providing gentle stretching to the vaginal walls. Regular use of magnetic vaginal dilators can help improve elasticity and lubrication, allowing for more comfortable sexual activity. Additionally, the magnets stimulate nerve endings which helps relax muscles that are tense due to pelvic floor dysfunction or childbirth trauma. Using the VuVa Magnetic Dilator Kits is a safe option for women suffering from vaginal atrophy due to menopause. The magnets help reduce discomfort and support recovery of the vaginal muscles so that women can enjoy pain-free intercourse and overall improved sexual health. By working with a healthcare professional to determine the right size and usage plan, these kits can provide long-term relief from menopausal symptoms. Other Benefits of Using VuVa Magnetic Dilators: - Increase blood flow to the vaginal walls safely at home - Help relax muscles that are tense due to pelvic floor dysfunction or childbirth trauma - Stimulate nerve endings - Improve gynecologic exams - Aid in recovery of vaginal muscles after surgery or childbirth - Support overall sexual health and comfort during intercourse. How can a pelvic floor physical therapist help me learn to use my dilators? A pelvic floor physical therapist can be an invaluable resource as you learn to use your dilators. An experienced PT will evaluate your current condition and provide instructions on how best to use the dilator kits, as well as other exercises and lifestyle changes to support long-term relief. They can also help you customize a program based on your individual needs, such as adjusting the size of dilator used, increasing frequency and duration of use, and incorporating other forms of pelvic floor therapy. VuVa Dilators are made in America Our dilators are made in Florida and come with a lifetime warranty, so you can use them with confidence knowing that they are the highest quality and safest dilator kits available. Another benefit is that these dilators are designed to last over time; they're strong and durable so you don't have to worry about them breaking during use. The kit also comes with detailed instructions on how to safely insert and remove them from the vagina, as well as other tips for vaginal health care. These instructions were composed by Dee Hartman, DPT, a leader in the pelvic health field. Overall, vaginal dilators are an excellent painful sex treatment option for women in 2023 due to their safety, effectiveness, and longevity. The VuVa Magnetic Dilator Kit provides additional therapeutic benefits to help with pelvic floor therapy and painful intercourse, making it a safe and reliable option for women in 2023. References: VuVa Magnetic Dilator Kits. (2021). Retrieved from https://hermanwallace.com/vuvamagneticdilatorkit/. Yancy, S. (2020). What is vaginal atrophy and how can it be treated? Retrieved from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/vaginal-atrophy-symptoms-causes-treatment. Thakar et al., (2015). Vaginal dilators: a review of current practice and evidence base for their use in the management of pelvic floor disorders. International Urogynecology Journal, 26(1): 77–86. doi:10.1007/s00192-014-24 VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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5 Possible Reasons Your Vaginal Trainers Aren’t Working
There is no doubt in the minds of women’s health experts that vaginal dilators (also called vaginal trainers) are some of the best tools for resolving a range of gynecological issues, from vaginismus to vaginal atrophy. It is easy to find studies supporting the use of vaginal dilators; likewise, there is a wealth of anecdotal evidence in the form of dilator therapy success stories online. However, if you have problems using a vaginal dilator, it may not be obvious why that is or what you can do about it. You might believe you are using dilators incorrectly, but that may not be the real problem. As with any therapy, we are all different, so some women may have problems using vaginal trainers - especially if they aren’t used to it. Am I using my dilator correctly? It’s been a while now… is my vaginal dilator working? Could I damage myself with a vaginal dilator? Is a dilator going to hurt me? Any number of questions may be buzzing around your head, creating anxiety or negative expectations, and ultimately contributing to difficulty doing vaginal dilating. In this article we have listed some of the most common reasons for vaginal dilators not working as expected according to vaginal dilator studies. We hope that it will help to identify your problems with vaginal dilating and make the necessary adjustments and move toward successful dilator therapy… Why aren’t my dilators working? A review of 21 studies on vaginal dilators brought to light some interesting reasons dilators might not be working for all women who use them, despite professional consensus that they are some of the best treatment tools for gynecological issues. Among the identified barriers to therapy adherence, “unhelpful circumstances” and “negative perceptions of the vaginal dilators” were the two mentioned most often. Interestingly, positive results were aligned with “supportive interactions with health care providers” and “risk perception and positive outcome expectancies”. This indicates that it is not necessarily the dilators that are the problem, and that resolving an underlying or concurrent problem may lead to successful vaginal trainer therapy. As outlined in the review, our health behavior tends to be guided by perceptions, meanings, and beliefs. Therefore health care providers can improve women’s adherence to vaginal trainer therapy by understanding how a woman perceives it. They can then introduce targets for improving unhelpful perceptions and improve the chances of a successful outcome. As highlighted by various studies, here are some of the main reasons for difficulties with vaginal training, and why they might be happening: Unclear or missing instructions on the use of vaginal dilators If you are wondering how to dilate properly, you obviously don’t have clear instructions to hand, or haven’t been given sufficient training. There could be various reasons for this: According to one vaginal trainer study, “Patients who purchase dilators have often suffered with their condition for a long time and had difficulty finding a competent health-care clinician well versed in sexual pain syndromes that can help them. When patients did find a clinician, there were no clinically proven standardized protocols or formalized guidelines to give to patients about how to best use their dilators.” Although a lack of dilator instructions may simply be an oversight on the part of your practitioner, it also could be down to assumptions that you were comfortable or confident, when in fact you were not. Perhaps you felt anxious and didn’t absorb the information on using dilators correctly, or perhaps your practitioner was simply not experienced enough to give clear and concise instructions. Unsupportive health care providers It is an unfortunate fact that some women’s health practitioners have become desensitized to their patient’s plights, perhaps for having seen so many of them. When carefully relayed information or warm support is not forthcoming, it can feel even more awkward to attempt to discuss the use of vaginal trainers. Especially when you are not close to the person and they don’t seem to care about your success! However it is your practitioner’s job to do so, and even if you are, they should not be embarrassed by it. Successful dilator therapy may depend on it. Whatever the reason, it is important to ask for proper assistance from your practitioner, or find one who is more experienced or conscientious. A negative perception of vaginal trainers Even if this is subconscious, or not fully conscious, it’s certainly a possibility - especially for women who have a history of fear of penetration or sexual acts. Some women perceive a loss of modesty or dignity when using dilators, and others experience emotional or mental flash backs to traumatic experiences, from painful cancer treatments to sexual violence. This can naturally translate to a negative perception of an instrument that may cause physical discomfort (at least initially) or bring up challenging memories. If you suspect that your dilator therapy isn’t working well because of such perceptions, it may be prudent to seek concurrent psychological support. Some women may not have understood the benefits of vaginal trainers in relation to their particular issue, and may need more clarity around this so as to be able to relax and trust the process. A tendency to expect negative experiences or outcomes Many studies have concluded that women can experience undesirable emotions and expectations while using vaginal trainers, from embarrassment to fear and anxiety. It is common to anticipate pain (whether you actually feel it or not), which can cause tension. For some people, life conditions them to expect things not to go well, and this expectation might be transferred on to your vaginal trainer therapy. This could prevent proper or consistent use of the dilator, thwarting positive results or making them take longer. As with point 4, if this sounds familiar, it may be an idea to seek some psychological support around life expectations, or to have a session with a women’s health professional to calm your nerves and help make your expectations more positive. Poor quality or incorrect sized dilators It may be that you are using dilators that are not made from medical-grade materials (or comfortable materials for such a sensitive area). Perhaps they were not designed ergonomically, or perhaps they were too basic for your condition. For example, magnetic dilators help to sooth nerve pain associated with vulvodynia, while simple plastic ones might only help a woman to become accustomed to the penetration. The quality of your dilators is as important as using the correct size for your capacity and health concern. If you get this wrong, it may result in ineffective dilator therapy. Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Other women on using dilators successfully Sometimes perseverance is required with troublesome conditions such as vaginismus and vulvodynia. Even if it seems like dilators aren’t working quickly, or you can’t get used to them, don’t give up too easily. It may be that you are having difficulty dilating because you have been using the wrong sized dilators, or perhaps not the best quality dilators. Since we make some of the best vaginal dilators available, we get plenty of confirmation from happy customers, which we hope will inspire you to trust in the efficacy and safety of vaginal dilators. The below recent testimonials on successful dilator therapy with our vaginal trainers should give you some faith in the process: “I first developed vulvodynia/vaginismus about 7 years ago. No reason it just happened. I have and continue to try lots of treatments but nothing has worked so far. I have seen these dilators pop up for years when I've been researching, but having had little improvement with other dilators I always ignored it. It came up again and this time I decided to read the reviews and thought I will take the risk and try them. I have been using for a month now and I've never seen an improvement with the vaginismus before like I have with these. I am now on the largest size!! (I started with 3 or 4 i think). I'm still on a journey to heal but this is set is helping me go a long way on it. I would definitely recommend!” “These vaginal dilators have drastically changed my life! Once I was finally comfortable inserting the largest size, I felt a huge weight lift off my shoulders. Vaginismus has controlled my sex life for too long, and these dilators have finally relaxed and stretched my vaginal muscles to the point where I can have pain-free sex! I was a little skeptical at first that these dilators would even work, but they were amazing. I would highly recommend these to anyone suffering from vaginismus or other related conditions.” You can read more vaginal trainer testimonials here. Resources Vaginal dilator exercises https://www.vuvatech.com/blogs/care/do-dilators-really-work How long does it take for dilators to work? https://www.vuvatech.com/blogs/care/how-long-does-it-take-for-dilators-to-work-vuva-dilator-company Scared of vaginal dilators? 5 Reasons you shouldn’t be https://www.vuvatech.com/blogs/care/are-you-scared-of-vaginal-dilators-5-reasons-you-shouldn-t-be VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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4 Ways to Treat Psychogenic Vaginismus (Pelvic Floor Myalgia)
Pelvic floor myalgia (muscle soreness) is another name for vaginismus, one of the most common causes of sexual pain in women. Most Doctors consider vaginismus to be psychogenic in nature, meaning that it has a psychological origin. With psychogenic vaginismus, it is psychological issues around sex that create fear or anxiety, which in turn causes a physical reaction that seems to be beyond the woman’s control: pelvic floor myalgia. Pelvic floor myalgia describes the tightening and tension that develops in the pelvic floor region. Not all women are aware of tightness in their pelvic floor muscles until it causes pain. Psychogenic vaginismus will result in pain in the vaginal muscles because the muscles go into spasm and essentially ‘clamp shut’ when penetration is attempted. Any further attempts to penetrate are likely to worsen pelvic floor tension myalgia, regardless of whether the penetration is sexual in nature. What does pelvic floor myalgia feel like? This is actually just another way of asking, “What do sore pelvic floor muscles feel like?”, as the muscles in the vagina and surrounding areas react to tension in the same way as other muscles in the body. However, there is a slight difference if you have psychogenic vaginismus, because in response to a thought (or even a subconscious fear) your vaginal muscles may involuntarily contract and feel very difficult to release. Since the pelvic floor is trickier to reach than other muscle groups, pelvic floor muscle contractions can persist for an extended period, causing pain. The pain of pelvic floor myalgia may feel like: Burning Deep, dull aching Soreness (akin to inflammation) Because of the tension in the pelvic floor muscles, vaginismus can give the impression of a ‘blockage’ inside the vagina. This is particularly evident when penetration is attempted, which is often unsuccessful as the vagina is tightly closed. Even urination and defecation can be difficult if you have psychogenic vaginismus. What causes pelvic floor myalgia? Pelvic floor tension myalgia can occur for various reasons, including: As a secondary reaction to pain around the vaginal opening (vulvar vestibulitis syndrome or vestibulodynia) As a response to prolonged and consistent squeezing or clenching of the vaginal muscles (as per psychogenic vaginismus) A history of habitually holding onto urine or stools A history of urinating too much or pushing too hard when passing stools Injury to the pelvic floor muscles during surgery or childbirth Nerve damage in the pelvic region What is psychogenic vaginismus? There is a clue in the fact that vaginismus is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), which is the American Psychological Association's manual of official psychiatric diagnoses. This certainly does not mean that women with psychogenic vaginismus have mental health problems in general: it simply means that they have a psychological issue around sex that is likely to need professional assistance. Vaginismus has more recently been classed as a genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD), which is diagnosed according to the following symptoms: Vulvovaginal or pelvic pain when intercourse is attempted Vulvovaginal or pelvic pain after intercourse is finished Pain during sexual intercourse Pelvic floor muscles contractions or tightening at the thought of vaginal penetration Fear or anxiety about the pain you experience with penetration What causes psychogenic vaginismus? At some point, women who experience issues with penetration or soreness during sex might find themselves asking, Do I have vaginismus? It may help to learn about this issue, so that the link between the various causes becomes clear. For some, psychogenic vaginismus may happen immediately after the first attempt to penetrate the vagina, whether that is with a tampon, a speculum or a penis. For some women, vaginismus may occur after having normal intercourse in the past, developing into long-term sexual dysfunction (if not treated effectively). Common causes of psychogenic vaginismus are: Difficult or painful past sexual experiences A history (or experience of) sexual trauma, such as sexual abuse or rape A lack of trust and connection with a sexual partner An unsatisfying sexual relationship A physically or emotionally abusive partner Past experiences of painful or distressing pelvic examinations Feeling a loss of control or anticipation of pain around penetration Being afraid of getting pregnant How do you treat pelvic floor myalgia? The pelvic floor muscles are technically under your voluntary control, but with psychogenic vaginismus it certainly doesn’t feel like that. This is why physical and emotional rehabilitation is often required. Below are 3 of the best ways to treat vaginismus symptoms: Physical support from a pelvic floor physiotherapist Pelvic floor myalgia is treated through pelvic floor rehabilitation; a pelvic floor physical therapist is likely to use physical manipulation, biofeedback and dilator therapy to relax your vaginal muscles and get you used to the feeling of penetration. You can also use vaginal dilators alone at home, which your therapist (if you have one) will usually recommend. Psychological support from a sexual therapist Treating the psychogenic aspect of vaginismus requires an experienced sexual therapist to address the underlying cause; that is, your subconscious programs around the sexual experience. If you have gone through a lot of stress or abuse, and even if there is no longer any danger, the body may have developed conditioned responses to triggers around sex and penetration. Seeking an experienced sexual counsellor to help work though sexual issues and core beliefs may be necessary, if you are to fully treat psychogenic vaginismus. Learning to relax Women with vaginismus are often out of touch with their own bodies, because rejecting the sexual experience is to reject their own sexuality. It can really help to get back in touch with your own body, in your own space and when you have plenty of time to relax. This might feel alien at first, but you will get used to it. It is necessary to feel comfortable with your body if you are going to enjoy sex, or at the very least be able tolerate any kind of penetration. The point is to become familiar with your body, what it enjoys and dislikes, and what leads to relaxation. It might help to use personal massagers and water-based lubricants, especially if you are going to attempt penetration at any point during this exploration. Over time, when you are more familiar with your body and sexual preferences, you will be able to communicate this more easily to a partner. Using vaginal dilators Experts highly recommend using vaginal dilators for vaginismus. We also know from many dilator testimonials that lots of women have great success treating vaginismus with vaginal dilators. Dilators are a form of desensitization therapy in which a woman learns to slowly relax and accept penetration at her own pace. They can stretch the vaginal walls to expand capacity, and help the muscles to become accustomed to the feeling of penetration. At some point you will feel ready to attempt penetration through sex, or to have a health examination. Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators Dilators treat vaginismus by reducing or completely stopping the muscle spasms that prevent penetration and lead to myalgia. Over time, your pelvic floor will start to relax relaxing and you can even find that you start to enjoy sex – which is surely the goal! It’s important to remember to be patient with yourself, because recovery from vaginismus often doesn’t happen overnight. We recommend buying magnetic dilators in a range of sizes (from small to large) initially, because they contain Neodymium magnets which help to stimulate blood flow and soothe nerves, making the whole process easier for your body. You can work your way up through the sizes, from small to large, until you feel comfortable with the largest. Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators You may need to combine therapies, as mentioned above, and it may be a case of trial and error with different therapies (and therapists!) until you find the combination that works best for you. Don’t worry though - it is definitely possible to heal from psychogenic vaginismus – it happens all the time, and with time and effort, it will surely happen for you too. Resources Vuvatech.com/blogs/vuvagirlblog/dealing-with-vaginismus-psychologically Vuvatech.com/blogs/care/how-to-overcome-fear-of-physical-intimacy Vuvatech.com/blogs/vuvagirlblog/fear-of-penetration-why-you-have-it-and-what-to-do Vuvatech.com/blogs/vuvagirlblog/how-vaginismus-treatment-could-change-your-life Vuvatech.com/blogs/vuvagirlblog/pelvic-pain-is-sex-therapy-the-answer VuVa Helpful Links: How do Neodymium Vaginal Dilators work? 7 Reasons for a Tight Vagina and How to Loosen How to use Vaginal Dilators How to Relax Vaginal Muscles, Vaginismus & Sex Vaginal Stretching - Keeping in Shape with Dilators Do Dilators Really Work? Yes, and They can Improve Your Sex Life! Shop for VuVa Vaginal Dilators
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