As a pelvic floor physiotherapist, I understand that after cancer treatment, many individuals face physical and emotional challenges that can feel overwhelming. While treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy save lives, they can also have a significant impact on the pelvic floor. It is common to see changes in your pelvic health post-treatment, including pain, scarring, or tightness. One tool that can greatly assist in the recovery process, and one that often feels intimidating at first, is dilator therapy.
In this blog post, I want to demystify dilator therapy, explain how it works, and why it can be a key part of your healing journey.
What is Dilator Therapy?
Dilator therapy involves the use of medical-grade plastic or silicone devices that come in various sizes, gradually increasing in length and circumference. These dilators are gently inserted into the vagina to help stretch and relax the tissues of the pelvic floor. The goal is to maintain or restore the elasticity and function of the pelvic floor tissues, helping to reduce discomfort and improve overall pelvic health.
Why is Dilator Therapy Important After Cancer Treatment?
Cancer treatments, particularly radiation and certain surgeries, can lead to vaginal stenosis (narrowing or shortening of the vagina) and/or adhesions (scar tissue). Additionally, hormone therapy, commonly used in breast cancer treatment, can impact the health of the pelvic floor tissue. These physical changes may result in a variety of issues, including:
- Pain with intercourse
- Difficulty with gynecological exams or self-care routines
- A sensation of vaginal tightness or restriction
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort
While these changes are common, they can be frustrating or discouraging. However, with the right approach, you can regain comfort and confidence in your body.
Breaking Down the Fear: What Does Dilator Therapy Look Like?
I know that the idea of using a dilator might sound daunting or uncomfortable, especially when you’re already navigating the emotional and physical toll of cancer treatment. But let me reassure you that working alongside a pelvic floor physiotherapist, the process is both gradual and customizable. Here’s how it typically works:
- Start Slowly and Gently: When starting dilator therapy, the goal is to begin with the dilator size that feels comfortable for you. It’s not about forcing anything—it’s about taking it slow and listening to your body. You will only move to a larger size when you feel ready.
- Consistency is Key: Just like any other rehabilitation treatment, consistency is very important. Your physiotherapist will help you come up with a plan for how often to do your dilator therapy. It may involve independent sessions at home, sessions together in person, or a combination of the two. Over time, this regular practice helps your tissues adjust, stretch, and regain mobility.
- Comfort and Safety: One of the most important aspects of dilator therapy is comfort. It is always okay to stop or take breaks if you experience any pain or discomfort. It’s crucial that you don’t feel rushed or pressured to move at any pace other than your own.
How Dilator Therapy Can Help You
- Improves Tissue Flexibility: By gently stretching the vaginal and pelvic tissues, dilators help improve flexibility and prevent vaginal narrowing or scarring from becoming permanent. This ensures that your pelvic organs can move freely, reducing discomfort.
- Promotes Healing After Radiation: Radiation therapy, especially in the pelvic area, can cause scarring and the thickening of tissues. Dilator therapy encourages blood flow to the area, which can promote tissue healing and reduce the long-term effects of radiation.
- Reduces Pain During Intimacy: Painful intercourse, or dyspareunia, can be a challenging side effect of cancer treatments. Regular use of dilators helps stretch the vaginal walls, making future intimacy less painful and more comfortable.
- Boosts Confidence: Engaging in dilator therapy can help you feel more in control of your body after cancer treatment. It’s a tool you can use to regain comfort, reduce pain, and rebuild trust in your pelvic floor. Over time, this process can help you feel more confident during pelvic exams, intimacy, and everyday activities.
Tips for Getting Started
- Be Patient with Yourself: Recovery is not linear, and there may be ups and downs. Your journey with dilator therapy will unfold at your own pace. Celebrate the small victories along the way!
- Communicate with Your Healthcare Team: Your pelvic floor physiotherapist is here to work with you! Be open about your progress, any challenges, or any discomfort you experience. We can adjust the approach based on your needs and comfort level.
- Use Lubrication: A water-based lubricant can help reduce friction and make the process more comfortable. It’s an important step in ensuring a smooth experience.
In Conclusion
While dilator therapy may seem intimidating at first, it is a compassionate, essential tool in your recovery process after cancer treatment. It’s an opportunity for you to take control of your healing, rebuild your pelvic floor strength, and improve your overall quality of life. With patience, care, and proper guidance, dilator therapy can help you regain comfort and confidence in your body. If you are considering dilator therapy, please reach out to a pelvic floor physiotherapist. We are here to support you every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement, and personalized care tailored to your needs. You deserve to feel comfortable and confident in every part of your recovery.
