Vaginal dilators are smooth, tapered trainers used to stretch vaginal tissue over time. Clinicians prescribe them after surgery, for vaginismus, for some pain conditions, and for people beginning penetrative play after a long pause. The set looks like a quiet family of bullets in rising size.

Sessions are short and boring on purpose. Lube, breathe, insert to a comfortable depth, wait, remove. Force is the enemy. A size that enters with patience is the correct size even if the box has two larger ones staring at you.

Materials are medical silicone or hard plastic. Rounded tips only. You can add a vibrator on the outside for some protocols; that is a clinician call if you are in treatment. Wash the set and keep it together so you do not skip a size by accident.

Practice

• Use the schedule you were given if you have one.
• Stop for sharp pain.
• A mirror can reduce anxiety about what is happening.
• Pair with pelvic-floor relaxation, not with Kegels, unless told otherwise.