When you live with vaginismus, a vaginal dilator is one of the options available to you as you begin treatment. Choosing the right one for you is almost as important as finding a healthcare provider that understands your own personal journey. One choice you must make is between a static and dynamic dilator. There are pros and cons to each, so we figured we’d give you a breakdown to help you decide.
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What’s the Deal with Sizes?
Static vaginal dilators come in a set of graduated sizes, with each dilator in the set being slightly larger than the one before it. The smallest dilator is usually smaller than a tampon, and the larger dilators are typically representative of the male anatomy
When you use a set of static dilators, you start with the smallest size tolerable for you . Over time, you will work your way up to the larger sizes, as tolerated. The controlled increase of size helps you stretch and strengthen your vaginal muscles slowly and incrementally.
Static dilators are available in a single size or as a set of various sizes. When purchasing a set of dilators of various sizes, it is possible that you may not need all sizes in that set.
Milli is a dynamic solution that expands to replicate all of the static dilator sizes in just one silicone dilator. You only need to purchase one dilator instead of a set and you control the expansion of the dilator with the touch of a button. Unlike static dilators, that may have intimidating jumps in sizing, Milli’s unique design gradually expands within your vagina, and you can easily monitor the pace of dilation one millimeter at a time. With Milli you avoid the discomfort or inconvenience of removal and reinsertion. In addition, it can make storage and travel easier than if you had multiple sizes of static dilators to manage.
What about Material?
Static dilators come in a variety of hard materials, including plastic and glass, that some might find uncomfortable. Many dilators are made from silicone, which offer more of a “real” feeling for you as you dilate. Milli, the only FDA-cleared dynamic vaginal dilator, has a silicone cover for your comfort.
What about Storage?
We’d be remiss in discussing anything anymore if we didn’t talk a bit about practicality, which includes everyday concerns like storing, cleaning, etc. If you choose a static dilator, you’ll have multiple sizes to store. And if you’re like me (and many others), the cabinets in your bathroom need a bit of a purge instead of adding anything into them. With Milli, though, you have one dilator that comes with its own case, so you can easily store it in the bathroom cabinet, or discreetly keep it in your bedside table. No matter what you choose or where you put it, you need to make sure you follow all directions for any dilator when it comes to cleaning.
What’s the Bottom Line?
Your journey is yours. You choose what’s best for you. Whatever you choose, make sure to read the instructions for use for the best experience. Consult your healthcare provider about any issues or concerns that arise as you start the dilation process.
