Vaginal Dilators Instead of Vaginoplasty?

Vaginal Plastic Surgery

The fact that you're here means you probably fit into one of these categories: 1) You're interested in a reconstructive vaginoplasty, 2) you've had a vaginoplasty, 3) or you know someone in one of the first two groups. Those taking the plunge and getting the procedure will often find that their doctor will recommend the use of a vaginal dilator to assist with creation of a new vagina. That will not be true if the vaginopasty is done to tighten a large vagina. In these instances dilators are no used and are not necessary. In some cases, a dilator could even be used in place of a vaginoplasty if a very tight but patent vagina exists. Here's some information about the dilator that you might find helpful.

Vaginal dilators come in a variety of sizes. As the woman's vagina stretches, she will move up to the next larger dilator size. The use of a dilator is considered safe, and in fact can sometimes be used without the use of any surgery.

Before you start using a vaginal dilator, it's important that you get counseling and teaching on how to use it from a nurse or doctor. You'll probably feel awkward asking questions, however, it's important for you to understand how this process works.

A dilator works through stretching the skin in the area of the vagina. It's a process that takes a period of time and does not produce immediate results. Some females have vaginal agenesis, with only a small vaginal opening, while others are born with a dimple where the skin puckers a little. Still others have a small vaginal opening but adequate enough that dilators will help in stretching it to a normal size.

When the female places the dilator in this area with a bit of pressure, her skin will stretch, thus forming a vagina. By using the dilator more often, this entire process will take less time (Meaning, of course, that the process will take longer if you rarely use the vaginal dilator).

The natural question arises: Just how long does it take to create a vagina using the dilator? In the best cases, it might take only 2 or 3 months. In more extreme cases, though, or in situations where the dilator is not used very often, it might take as many as 18 months. On average, if you use the dilator correctly about 20 minutes, two times a day, it should take about 3 to 6 months to form the vagina.

Most ladies find they have the best results if they set a time each day and use the dilator consistently at that same time each day. You should pick a time when you're not involved in other activities, such as right before bed time or first thing when you wake up. After you learn to use the dilator, you'll find that you can hold it in one hand and do other things such as talk on the telephone, read or watch television.

Before you use the dilator, take a warm bath of 10 to 15 minutes. This will soften your skin to make it easier for your skin to stretch naturally. As you do so, wash the dilator itself with mild soap and then dry it off. Apply a lubricant and plan to spend about 20 minutes using it. Follow the technique outlined for you by your doctor or nurse.

Following dilation, remember to store the dilator where you'll be able to find it next time. The dilator does not require sterilizing, but remember to wash it with mild soap and warm water before you put it away.