Dilators

Are dilators a medical device or a pleasure product?

They can be both, depending on the design and how they are used. Many dilators are designed primarily as therapeutic tools recommended by gynaecologists, pelvic floor physiotherapists, and oncology care teams to address conditions such as vaginismus, dyspareunia, vulvodynia, vaginal atrophy, and post-radiation stenosis. Some people also incorporate them into their intimate lives for comfort and confidence. Either use is completely valid. If you are managing a specific health condition, it is worth discussing a dilator programme with a qualified healthcare provider before you begin.

What size should I start with?

There is no universal starting size, and choosing too large too soon can cause discomfort and set back your progress. A good general principle is to begin with a size that can be inserted without pain or significant resistance, even if it feels very small. Many practitioners suggest starting smaller than you think you need. Graduated kits are helpful here because they remove the guesswork and give you a clear, incremental path forward. If you are unsure, a pelvic floor physiotherapist can assess and recommend a specific starting point.

Which materials are safest for internal use?

The three most widely recommended materials for dilators are:

• Medical-grade silicone: Soft, flexible, non-porous, phthalate-free, and body-safe. Requires water-based lubricant only.
• Borosilicate glass: Non-porous, hypoallergenic, temperature-stable, and compatible with all lubricant types. Inspect before each use and discard if chipped or cracked.
• Stainless steel: Non-porous, extremely durable, and compatible with all lubricants. Can feel heavier and firmer, which some users find helpful for proprioceptive feedback during therapy.

Avoid dilators made from jelly rubber, PVC, or any material labelled as a novelty, as these can contain harmful chemicals and cannot be fully sterilised.

How do I clean and store my dilators?

Cleaning method depends on material. Medical-grade silicone, borosilicate glass, and stainless steel dilators without internal motors can all be boiled for three minutes, run through the top rack of a dishwasher without detergent, or wiped down with a 10 percent bleach solution followed by a rinse with clean water. Always allow them to dry fully before storing. Keep dilators in a clean, breathable pouch or case away from direct sunlight and other toys that could scratch the surface. Clean before and after every single use.

Do I need a special lubricant?

Yes, lubricant choice matters. Using enough lubricant is important for both comfort and tissue safety during dilation. Match your lubricant to your dilator material: use a water-based lubricant with silicone dilators to avoid degrading the surface. Glass and stainless steel are compatible with water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based lubricants. If you are experiencing vaginal dryness related to menopause, cancer treatment, or hormonal changes, a longer-lasting silicone-based or specially formulated vaginal moisturising lubricant may provide more comfort. Avoid anything containing glycerin, fragrance, or numbing agents inside the vagina.