November 21, 2022

All Dilator Guides - Start here!

How do I know if Dilators are right for me?

BIEN Silicone Vaginal Dilators have been designed to be used by individuals who are experiencing painful penetration or pain on and around the vulva and vagina.

Reasons to use BIEN Silicone Vaginal Dilators include:

Vaginismus
Pelvic floor muscle spasm
Vaginal narrowing or pain with intercourse post-menopause
Vulvodynia
Vestibulodynia
Pain with penetration or tampon use
Vaginal changes or pain after radiation treatment
Post-surgery for gender affirming surgery
Vaginal stenosis and Vaginal atrophy

Finding the Right size:

How do I progress through my set?

The progression through dilators will be individual and different depending on your condition and symptoms.

Gently wash the dilators with warm water and soap, and dry prior to use
Select the size of vaginal dilator that looks appropriate for your needs or that has been suggested by your health care provider
Place water based lubricant or gel on the dilator and on the entrance of the vulva and vagina
Lying on your back, take five deep breaths, focusing on the rise and fall of your chest
Bring the dilator to the entrance of the vagina and slowly insert the dilator while maintaining deep breathing, keeping pain levels below a 4/10
Once the dilator is inserted into the vagina, aim to keep your pelvic floor, abdominals and hip muscles as relaxed as possible
Aim to have the dilator inserted for 15 minutes or as guided by your health care professional
After 15 minutes, if your pain levels are still less than 4/10, you can start to move the dilator inside the vagina. You might do this by twisting it in a clockwise and anticlockwise direction. You might progress to inserting and removing it half way or tilting it to the left and right. More water based lubrication may be needed as you do this
Once complete, remove and clean the dilator with warm water and soap and pat dry prior to storing
Repeat this process everyday or every second day (or as guided by your health care professional)

How long and how often should I use my dilators for?

Your training plan should be individual to your specific goals and ideally this is set in conjunction with your health care provider. For most individuals using dilators for 15-20 minutes, 4-7 times a week will achieve desired outcomes. Once you have reached the end of your treatment plan, a maintenance program of 2-3 times a week might be suggested to ensure your progress is not lost.

Different positions to try to progress your return to intercourse

These positions can assist with your return to sexual intercourse by training the pelvic floor and vaginal canal to accept penetration in a variety of positions where the depth and position of penetration may be more intense or just different.

How to care for your dilators

Gently wash BIEN dilators in warm soapy water prior to use. Store them in a clean dry place or in the provided bag. Ensure they are cleaned with warm water and soap after each use and dry before storing. Use only water-based lubricants or body safe gels with dilators.