on the same person. Just as our two eyes are not identical, nor our ears or breasts, the lips of our labia are neither identical nor symmetrical. Likewise, a man’s testicles are neither identical nor symmetrical, but we don’t comment on how irregular a man’s balls are, do we?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span>
\n<\/span>Do women realize that variations in labia is considered “normal”?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\nShockingly, 50% of women wonder if their vagina is normal looking.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nYou know what’s normal? Different is normal. Women are in search of the perfect vagina. The only qualities that make a vulva and vagina “perfect” are personal confidence and good health.<\/span><\/p>\nAs a result of social media and porn, some women have been made to feel vulva\/vagina insecurity. And I\u2019m not just seeing this in patients, either, although it\u2019s definitely something that comes up regularly in my examining room. It\u2019s everywhere. An internet search of the word \u201cvagina\u201d brings up a variety of links, many leading to everyday women showing off their vaginas: You Tube videos of women talking about vaginal rejuvenation, websites devoted to discussing and examining anything vagina-related, and, of course, porn sites. These are the reference points that young women\u2014women of all ages, really\u2014now use when seeking the ideal of the perfect vagina. Adolescent boys are having the same issues regarding the size and length of their penises, even though, like vulva\u2019s and vaginas, no two penises or scrotums are the same.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span>If women are really uncomfortable by how they look, what are some steps they can take?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\nVariations of the vulva are completely normal as is variations of a man\u2019s genitalia.\u00a0 Understanding what is normal makes variations in size and shapes \u201cnormal\u201d.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Educating women on a women\u2019s anatomy is helpful along with explaining that different is normal. You need to get to know and love all parts of this fascinating area of your body. Know what <\/span>your<\/span><\/i> \u201cnormal\u201d is so you will know when something is not normal or when a potential problem arises.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
While a wide range of variety is the norm when it comes to vulva\u2019s, there are women out there who do have abnormal labia. But, again, this has nothing to do with aesthetics. For most, there\u2019s no denying that something isn\u2019t quite right. The most common symptom is the need to fold up their labia and push them into their vaginas in order to reduce the appearance of excess tissue or a bulge in their underwear or bathing suits. Other symptoms include labial pain, swelling, irritation, poor hygiene, and interference with athletics or sexual activity. Oversized or enlarged labia can impact athletics, such as running, bicycling, horseback riding, and swimming. Surgical procedures are available to improve these symptoms, as well as the appearance of the vulva and clitoral hood if disruptive and life changing behaviors occur.<\/span><\/p>\nDiscuss your concerns and complaints with your gynecologist. The primary procedure to repair such abnormal labia is called labiaplasty. A trained plastic surgeon or gynecologist can perform this simple outpatient procedure, and the results can be life changing. As with any surgery, however, complications can occur. The most seen side-effect of this procedure is painful scarring that can lead to discomfort during sex. As always, it\u2019s important to have a candid talk with your doctor and maintain realistic expectations.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf labiaplasty is being considered, make sure you get a second or third opinion before undergoing any surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/b>What would you say to a woman who is concerned about this part of her appearance?<\/b><\/p>\n
I try and reduce my patient\u2019s anxiety about their vulva and vagina\u2019s and reassure them that different is normal. I frequently pull out the mirror during a pelvic exam and go over my patient\u2019s vagina and all its glory and let me know their vagina is completely normal.\u00a0 While a wide range of variety is the norm when it comes to vaginas, there are women out there who do have abnormal labia. The most common symptom is the need to fold up their labia and push them into their vaginas in order to reduce the appearance of excess tissue or a bulge in their underwear or bathing suits. Other symptoms include labial pain, swelling, irritation, poor hygiene, and interference with athletics or sexual activity. Oversized or enlarged labia can impact athletics, such as running, bicycling, horseback riding, and swimming. Surgical procedures such as labial-plasty are available to improve these symptoms, as well as the appearance of the vagina if warranted.<\/span><\/p>\nThe conversation of how women \u201csize up\u201d to others happens a lot more often than actually needing the surgery to change the appearance of the vagina.\u00a0 In truth, I perform very few labial-plasty of the vagina each year. Education provides comfort and confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n<\/span> How can\/should women talk to their partners about this?<\/b><\/p>\nWomen first have to be comfortable talking about their own vulva and vagina first and foremost before they can talk about it with their partner. Embrace all parts of your body especially your vulva and vagina. Talking about this sensitive part of your body will allow you to comfortably talk about it with your partner.<\/span><\/p>\nOnce a woman feels empowered to talk about her body, vulva and vagina she will be able to communicate with her partner with the same voice of confidence.<\/span><\/p>\nWhy are these conversations about the vulva so important to have with yourself and your partner?<\/b><\/p>\n
We need to get the \u201cV\u2019 out of the closet. Women need to talk about their specific health care issues, issues that are often ignored and not dealt with.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nTalking about vaginas will lead to conversations about the health and welfare of women.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nI am counting on our younger generations of women to help lead the way and change the narrative on how we talk about our health, our bodies, and especially, our vulvas and vaginas.\u00a0 Women need to take control of their bodies in every way. We cannot be afraid to ask uncomfortable questions. We need to learn and explore the changes our bodies experience throughout our lifetime.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nHow can your doctor help you with the conversation if you think your vulva looks abnormal?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n
I feel strongly that doctors have to lead the fight to bring back communication with our patients. We need a dialogue, a community, a movement, which is why I plan on creating a platform with ongoing dialogue, related articles and blog entries, in order to make women feel heard and supported. Everything is connected: in life, in love, and in medicine. So, let\u2019s say the awkward words and ask the hard questions. Let\u2019s have the conversations. It\u2019s okay to blush or giggle or be totally serious. We can also have a good time. Make it a party. All that matters is that we create a dialogue with each other about our vaginas and ourselves.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nTalking about vulva\u2019s and vaginas will lead to conversations about the health and welfare of women. We need to change the status quo of our healthcare and make significant changes so that our daughters <\/span>and sons<\/span><\/i>, will benefit. We need to start saying the word vagina loud and proud.\u00a0 We need to start a vagina revolution…now!<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
I keep reading about vaginal rejuvenation. How do I know if I truly need it?<\/b><\/p>\n
Women\u2019s obsession to look perfect goes from head to toes on the body.\u00a0 Porn and social media has created <\/span>vulva and <\/span>vaginal insecurity which has helped moved vaginal rejuvenation to the forefront.\u00a0 It used to be that doctors were not tempted to take part in a lot of smoke and mirrors when it came to medical procedures but the tide has turned and now this term of false advertising has ramped up. This has become deceptive and misleading medical marketing at its finest.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSome of them include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Plumping up the labia<\/span><\/li>\n
- Removing skin discoloration of the labia<\/span><\/li>\n
- Improving elasticity of the labia<\/span><\/li>\n
- Making the entrance to the vagina tighter<\/span><\/li>\n
- Making the entire vagina tighter<\/span><\/li>\n
- Reshaping the size and shape of the labia<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Just like any other part of your body with skin, glands and hair follicles, the appearance of the vulva is affected by the aging process and how well you care of it.<\/span>\u00a0 The skin of the <\/span>vulva<\/span> is as sensitive as the skin on the face.\u00a0 Keeping it hydrated, moisturized and clean will help in slowing down the aging process of the vulva and vagina.<\/span><\/p>\nHydrating, moisturizing, and cleaning the vulva and vagina daily are the 3 best feminine rituals you can do to keep this delicate area healthy and beautiful.\u00a0 Using vulva and vagina friendly feminine washes and moisturizers is my best recommendation to allow the vulva to age gracefully.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/b>I have problems putting tampons in and having sex with my BF. My vagina tightens up even when I try to relax,\u00a0 my gyno told me I have Vaginismus? Not sure what to do about it.<\/b><\/p>\n
Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles of the vagina contract involuntarily, tighten or spasm causing vaginal pain,\u00a0sexual discomfort, burning and penetration problems.\u00a0\u00a0Vaginismus commonly occurs during sexual intercourse, with insertion of a tampon or during a pelvic examination. These symptoms are ongoing and lifelong disrupting intimacy, personal relationships and daily life activities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nA diagnosis of vaginismus can feel overwhelming to women suffering from this condition.\u00a0\u00a0Everyday behaviors such as sexual intercourse or having to insert a tampon can create anxiety and fear for women with vaginismus. Vaginismus is a devastating, confusing and traumatic condition often ruining relationships and self-esteem. It\u2019s responsible for sexless, unconsummated marriages.<\/span><\/p>\nPossible causes of vaginismus can be due to an abnormally low sexual desire, phobia, lack of sexual knowledge, cultural and religious beliefs, genital and sexual trauma, abuse and sexual aversion.\u00a0There are also situational and psychosocial causes of vaginismus.\u00a0 Chronic medical conditions such as urinary tract or yeast infections, a traumatic vaginal delivery, menopause or problematic vaginal surgery can also cause vaginismus.<\/span><\/p>\nWomen ultimately avoid any activity involving the vagina. Many suffer in silence.<\/span><\/p>\nThe incidence of vaginismus ranges from 5 to 42%.\u00a0\u00a0This wide range is due to women not openly discussing symptoms related to vaginismus especially as it relates to sexual dysfunction. Talking about sexual problems or topics involving the vagina is not easy for women or health care providers to bring up.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nThe treatment strategies for vaginismus are personalized depending on the cause.\u00a0\u00a0Treatment involves cognitive and behavioral psychotherapy also known as desensitization.\u00a0Desensitization\u00a0therapy teaches women to control pelvic muscle tone and relaxation.\u00a0\u00a0Kegel exercises and using vaginal dilators helps women control their pelvic floor muscles.\u00a0\u00a0Other treatment options include sex therapy, progressive relaxation, electromyography, biofeedback, hypnotherapy and use of benzodiazepines and botulinum injections.<\/span><\/p>\nFor women experiencing any type of sexual dysfunction or pain in the vagina it\u2019s important to discuss these symptoms with a trusted health care provider. This should never be anyone\u2019s status quo.<\/span><\/p>\nIt\u2019s a complicated medical condition that is both emotionally challenging and physically painful.<\/span><\/p>\nI have always had very painful sex and my doctor just diagnosed me with Vulvodynia. Any non-medical treatment options?<\/b><\/p>\n
Vulvodynia is an extremely painful condition involving the vulva or lips and vagina. Pain in the outside of the vagina that last for 3 months or longer not caused by infection, skin disorder or other medical conditions. The exact cause of vulvodynia is unknown. \u00a0Some believe it can be caused by damage of the nerves of the vulva, inflammation of the vulva, genetic disorders, sensitivity to certain food, long-term reactions to certain infections.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0Symptoms of vulvodynia include burning, stinging, irritation and rawness at the entrance of the vagina or the entire vulvar area. Of the \u00a0\u00a0Women suffering from vulvodynia describe aching, soreness, throbbing and swelling involving these same areas.\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nIf you have vulvodynia exercise, tampon insertion, the ability to wear jeans, sexual intercourse and various other everyday activities can become impossible with the onset of this condition.<\/span><\/p>\nTreatment for vulvodynia varies from person to person and may include a combination of methods, which may last from weeks to months. The treatment strategies for vulvodynia are individualized. Treatment involves cognitive and behavioral psychotherapy also known as desensitization.\u00a0Desensitization\u00a0therapy teaches women to control pelvic muscle tone and relaxation.\u00a0 Kegel exercises and using vaginal dilators helps women control their pelvic floor muscles. \u00a0Other treatment options include sex therapy, progressive relaxation, electromyography, biofeedback, hypnotherapy and use of benzodiazepines and botulinum injections.<\/span><\/p>\nNon-medical treatment includes icepacks, cool gel packs and Vaseline to relieve the pain and swelling. Physical therapy, biofeedback, dietary changes, couple and sexual counseling have also been utilized in treating vulvodynia.<\/span><\/p>\nTopical medical treatments may include lidocaine 2.5% ointment (a local anesthetic), for use especially before sexual contact (applied 30 minutes prior). Other numbing ointments that have been proven successful are Emla cream, LMX 4% cream and topical estrogen.<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0Oral medications include antidepressants such as Amtripyline, Nortripylline and Prozac and anticonvulsants such as gabapentin and carbamazepine (which are also used to treat neuropathic pain). In the case of unbearable and unrelenting symptoms, surgery is often a last resort.<\/span><\/p>\nVulvodynia is a confusing and frustrating medical condition for both the health care provider and patient. Emotional and psychological support goes hand-in-hand with medical treatment options.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nVulvodynia is ongoing and lifelong disrupting intimacy, personal relationships and daily life activities.\u00a0Sex and intimacy is turned upside down if diagnosed with vulvodynia.<\/span><\/p>\nWomen are often embarrassed and ashamed to discuss these symptoms with their partner.\u00a0 Many will avoid sex and relationships all together.\u00a0 It\u2019s incredibly frustrating and heartbreaking when these women are given a diagnosis of vulvodynia.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nVulvodynia can be cured depending on a woman\u2019s motivation and determination not to allow this condition to run her sexual and everyday life. It may be challenging and depressing to treat but it can be done!<\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nI have an ongoing itch for the last 6 months on my V and my doc just told me I don\u2019t have a yeast or bacterial infection, what\u2019s going on?<\/b><\/p>\n
Just because you have itching of the vulva doesn\u2019t necessarily mean you have a yeast or bacterial infection. The truth is that anywhere on our bodies where there is skin, nerve fibers, hair\/hair follicles and sweat glands there is a potential for itching. The vulva can be delicate and temperamental, often affected by everyday routines including diet, medications, stress, fragranced body and laundry soaps, douching and sex. Anything that disrupts the pH balance makes the vulva and vagina a not so happy place. Once you have ruled out a yeast or bacterial infection and that vulvar itch won\u2019t go away it\u2019s time to look at more common causes.\u00a0 Fragrant body and laundry soaps, sanitary pads and stress are some of the common culprits.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nTypical symptoms of an itchy vulva, unrelated to a yeast infection, include an inflamed vulva and vagina with itching, burning, redness and swelling.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nSeeing your healthcare provider is important to rule out any kind of infection, STI, pubic lice or skin disorder and help identify other \u00a0 Treatment is finding out the cause and removing it from your daily activities. Using a hydrocortisone cream, coconut oil baths, cotton underwear and patience.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat are some of the common feminine hygiene products to avoid that can cause an itchy vulva?<\/b><\/p>\n
Vulvar skin dryness and irritation can cause chronic itching of this delicate area of the vagina.\u00a0 A condition called the \u201cscratch-itch\u201d cycle can occur as a result of wearing sanitary napkins and panty liners every day.\u00a0 Even the most organic and natural panty liners can disrupt the delicate skin of the vulva.<\/span><\/p>\nAvoiding daily use of these disruptive pads and panty liners and only use them to collect period bleeding as needed. Following use taking pads and liners it\u2019s helpful to soak in a warm water bath with extra virgin coconut oil to sooth and moisturize the skin of the vulva.<\/span><\/p>\nOther common vulvar irritants you may or may not realize are problematic:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Fragrant soaps, bubble bath liquids, bath salts, talcum powder<\/span><\/li>\n
- Detergents, fabric softeners and dryer sheets<\/span><\/li>\n
- Sanitary wipes and pads<\/span><\/li>\n
- Warming gels and scented lubricants<\/span><\/li>\n
- Nylon underwear or bathing suits<\/span><\/li>\n
- Rubber products such as diaphragms and condoms<\/span><\/li>\n
- Saliva or semen (I kid you not)<\/span><\/li>\n
- Spermicides such as foams, creams and jellies<\/span><\/li>\n
- Feminine hygiene sprays, tampons or deodorant pads<\/span><\/li>\n
- Creams or ointments applied to the vulva<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
A useful tip for all is: best to wear cotton or microfiber underwear during the day. At night, give your vulva a chance to breathe and get rid of the panties altogether.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
When should someone see a healthcare provider for chronic vulva itching?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
If your symptoms persist despite trying easy at home remedies, it\u2019s time to follow up with your health care provider.\u00a0 They can take vaginal cultures checking for yeast and bacteria, and get a comprehensive history to ensure certain feminine hygiene habits or other irritants are not the primary cause of persistent vulvar itching.<\/span><\/p>\nCan the vulva develop varicose veins?<\/b><\/p>\n
Varicose veins are stretched out and enlarged veins in your body, mainly in the legs and feet, but can also occur in the vulva. Those prone to vulva varicosities include women who are obese, pregnant, or experience excessive pressure from prolonged standing, walking and exercise.<\/span><\/p>\nVulvar varicosities can be supported by wearing compression underwear or nylons, avoiding prolonged standing or squatting and reducing excess salt intake in your diet.<\/span><\/p>\nIf varicose veins in the vulva become disruptive, there are surgical procedures and helpful injectable medications to help manage them.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
I notice the lips of my vagina changing color as I have gotten older? Why is that happening?<\/b><\/p>\n
Hormonal changes associated with estrogen, including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, increase pigment in the skin of the vulva and vagina.<\/span><\/p>\nSkin trauma from sex, shaving, ingrown hairs, folliculitis and recurrent infections can increase the pigmentation to the skin, changing the color.<\/span><\/p>\nAging can also cause changes of the skin color of the vulva and vagina.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
What will happen to my episiotomy scar and pelvic floor after having a vaginal birth over time?<\/b><\/p>\n
Childbirth probably has the most dramatic effect on the vagina, especially if you have a vaginal delivery.\u00a0A recent statistic showed that \u201c30% of women who have a vaginal birth will have some form of trauma to the tissue and muscles in the vagina and pelvic floor\u201d.\u00a0 The vagina and all its elastic glory can only stretch so much during childbirth.\u00a0 With each vaginal delivery there is a little more stretching which has an accumulative effect that ultimately changes the outward appearance of the vagina. The pelvic floor muscles that stretch, distend and tear in the vagina to allow the baby\u2019s head to come through this tight space will never be quite the same over time.\u00a0 The more vaginal deliveries you have, the more the vagina stretches, especially in the vaginal opening. \u00a0Women often chose to have an elective cesarean section to avoid any trauma caused to the vagina from a vaginal birth.<\/span><\/p>\nThere is a definite correlation between having a lot of vaginal deliveries and big babies that permanently stretch the outward appearance of the vulva and vagina. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Is vaginal dryness tied to the hormone estrogen?<\/b><\/p>\n
There are 3 main hormonal assaults on the body causing a drop in estrogen leading to vaginal dryness is breast feeding, perimenopause and menopause. Breastfeeding occurs during your reproductive years while perimenopause and menopause typically happens in your 40\u2019s and 50\u2019s years old. These hormonal conditions lead to vaginal dryness which can be reversible.\u00a0 Once you stop breast feeding the vagina will return to its normal healthy and hydrated state.\u00a0 During perimenopause and menopause, vaginal estrogen will reverse the dryness caused by erratic and low estrogen.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Does the vagina get smaller and more narrow with aging?<\/b><\/p>\n
Expect the unexpected as your vulva and vagina transition from peri-menopause to menopause. With menopause and the loss of estrogen stimulation in the vagina, the tissue can become dry, pale and smaller.\u00a0Some vagina\u2019s become shorter and narrower if there is no sexual activity including penetration with a penis, dildo, sex toys or fingers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nWith menopause my vagina has gotten smaller and dry making sexual intercourse impossible? What are treatment options for me?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n
The opening of the vagina, also called the introitus, can become smaller or shrink for a number of reasons. Vaginal dilators can be used to help gently enlarge a small vaginal opening (introitus) over time. Vaginal dilators increase the elasticity, strengthen and revitalize vaginal muscles and tissue, keeping it from becoming too short or narrow. Dilator sets come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and materials, while all sharing a common goal \u2013 helping restore vaginal capacity, stretching the vaginal opening, and making intimacy, sexual intercourse or self-stimulation more pleasurable and comfortable.<\/span><\/p>\nWhat are the reasons someone would need vaginal dilators to help stretch the vaginal opening?<\/b><\/p>\n
Some women discover the involuntary tightening of their pelvic floor muscles, and the ensuing pain, from the first time they attempt vaginal sex. It could also be a tampon, or a gynecologist\u2019s speculum, that triggers the pain. The choice becomes burning spasms or impenetrability, as if a wall blocked the vagina. It’s a physical problem, but psychological issues often accompany vaginismus.<\/span><\/p>\nMain Reasons people would need to use vaginal dilators include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Peri-Menopause and Menopause<\/span><\/li>\n
- Painful Intercourse<\/span><\/li>\n
- Infrequent Sexual Penetration<\/span><\/li>\n
- Vaginismus<\/span><\/li>\n
- Vulvodynia<\/span><\/li>\n
- Partner with large Penis Girth & Length<\/span><\/li>\n
- Neo-Vagina Patient<\/span><\/li>\n
- Breast and Other Female Cancer Patients<\/span><\/li>\n
- Cancer radiation patients<\/span><\/li>\n
- Virgins<\/span><\/li>\n
- Sexual Trauma<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
What are the types of vaginal dilators on the market?<\/b><\/p>\n
There are a number of vaginal dilators on the market today. Ideally you want to purchase dilators made of medical-grade plastic or silicone. Why you need the dilator(s) may determine how long you need them to be. Dilators come in many different size, shapes and lengths. All of the dilators on the market you have to be lying down to use except ones I designed that allow women to be mobile. I have created wearable vaginal dilators that provide more comfort, mobility and compliance. You can find them on my drsherry.com website if interested.<\/span><\/p>\nI also recommend <\/span>pre-moisturizing<\/span> the vagina with an internal moisturizer nightly for 2 weeks nightly before using vaginal dilators, then using every 2-3 nights.<\/span><\/p>\nYou want to use water-based lubricant when inserting the dilator for best results.\u00a0 Avoid using petroleum jelly since it can cause vaginal irritation. Using silicone or oil-based lubricants is acceptable but they may break down the silicone material faster.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
How to use a vaginal dilators?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n
I am not gonna lie, using vaginal dilators to help restore the vaginal tissue and elasticity can take some work\u2026what I like to call \u201chomework\u201d. For those that have a small vaginal opening due to lack of sexual penetration, it may have been a few years since there has been any activity. With this in mind, it may take some time, usually months, following the below recommendations to get the vaginal opening functional again. The process has to be slow, steady and filled with patience.<\/span><\/p>\nPremoisturizing<\/span> the vagina with an internal moisturizer (I like recommending Key E coconut oil suppositories-inexpensive and can be purchased on Amazon) nightly for 2 weeks nightly before using vaginal dilators, then use every 2-3 nights.<\/span><\/p>\n\n- Find a time and a quiet place where you can be comfortable, either alone or with your partner. The most natural position for insertion is with one leg placed on top of the toilet seat or lying on your back with your legs in a \u201cfrog-leg\u201d position. Relax your pelvic floor muscles, take some deep breaths, and gently insert the dilator.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Start with the smallest size dilator in your kit. Insert a well-lubricated dilator into the vagina until the base is flush with the vaginal opening. A water-based lubricant is recommended. Wearing a pair of snug-fitting underwear will help keep the dilator in place, especially in the upright position.<\/span><\/li>\n
- The goal of using a vaginal dilator is to increase the size of the dilator slowly and comfortably to retain, expand, and gently stretch the entrance and canal of the vagina for additional comfort and pleasure. When you can insert one size of a dilator completely without any discomfort, then you should start using the next size up. The goal is to insert the largest size dilator without any discomfort. The longer time it\u2019s in the vagina will give best results.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Enhance dilation by inserting a vibrating bullet into the base of your dilator. This added stimulation and sensation may help relax your muscle when increasing dilator sizes.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Start with the smallest dilator size and insert the rounded end into your vagina, the way you would with a tampon. This first, smallest dilator should not feel uncomfortable when inserted; if it does, go to a smaller size.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Put on underwear to secure the base of the dilator in place. You can move around and do simple activities or sit at the computer while the dilator is in place<\/span><\/li>\n
- It is recommended to use dilators 2 to 5 times per week for 5 to 30 minutes as needed and depending on your comfort level for best results.<\/span><\/li>\n
- After using the dilator wash it with warm water and anti-bacterial soap or a sex toy cleaner.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
<\/p>\n
Restored vaginal capacity can be a huge source of joy! Pain should never be an option.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Why you should pre-moisturize the vagina before using vaginal dilators?<\/b><\/p>\n
I highly recommend pre-moisturizing the vagina for at least 2 weeks before starting to dilate the vagina. The inside of the vagina must be moisturized before inserted a lubricated dilator. This is necessary for comfort while doing your \u201chomework\u201d. When a lubricated dilator is inserted into a vagina that is moisturized, the dilator will feel more comfort when inside the vagina and will not stick to the walls of the vagina if left in for longer periods of time.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nI recommend the following to my patients:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nPlease pre-treat and moisturize the vagina or anus, with an internal moisturizer for 2 weeks nightly, and then use every 2-3\u00a0 nights while using the vaginal dilators. Use an over-the-counter Hyaluronic Acid, Replens, Me Again, Prohydrate, Feminease or Key-E before using a well lubricated vaginal or anal dilator<\/span><\/i>.\u00a0 You can also use a prescription vaginal estrogen if you are in perimenopause or menopause.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
How can work out clothing affect the vagina?<\/b><\/p>\n
Selecting the best clothes to work out in is particularly important when it comes to the vagina.\u00a0 Active sportswear or clothes to work out in can be a confusing topic.\u00a0 The days of baggy cotton sweats have been replaced with high tech swag to help your skin breath, absorb moisture and prevent you from getting soaked in sweat. To keep it simple, pick fabrics such as nylon, spandex and polyester that are comfortable, nonabsorbent and flexible. Some materials are even known to be \u201cantibacterial, enhance your physical performance and provide attention support.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nJust remember yeast and bacteria thrive in a warm and moist environment.\u00a0 As long as your workout clothing has built in panties or liners with special antibacterial fabric that can absorb the extra sweat you should be fine leaving the undies at home.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n