Women with androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) or Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome are born with a genetic makeup that results in narrow and shallow vaginal openings.
They may undergo surgery to assist with altering vaginal depth; however, many do not. Vaginal dilator training can be an effective tool for lengthening the vaginal opening and creating a wider opening for intercourse.
These women may experience stigma in their lives and may feel pain when attempting have sex or to use dilators so that they can have sex. The proper use of vaginal dilators over time can be helpful in achieving pain-free intercourse.
What Are Vaginal Trainers?
A vaginal dilator, also referred to as a trainer, is used to restore vaginal width, depth, and elasticity to allow for sexual activity in women with AIS and MRKH syndrome.
They are also useful for women experiencing vaginismus, vulvodynia, vestibulodynia, pelvic pain, or vaginal tightness associated with menopause or after radiation or surgery to the pelvic or vaginal region.
These unique pelvic floor exercisers are commonly recommended after certain types of cancer treatments such as radiation and surgery.
Treating AIS and MRKH Syndrome: Intimate Rose Vaginal Dilators
The Intimate Rose dilators for women feature a silky texture and unlike many of the other trainers, they are not sticky or hard.
The graduated sizes allow for women to find their perfect fit and progress to reach their goals. The average length of the female vagina is 3–4 inches. For many women with AIS or MRKH syndrome, this can feel daunting if not demoralizing.
It is important to recognize that vaginal training is a process and that ultimately the end goal is up to you.
Learn what Dr. Amanda Olson says about vaginal trainers for AIS and MRKH.
How to Start Using Dilators
- Wash the dilator with warm water and soap.
- Designate a place in your home that is comfortable for your vaginal trainer practice. Choose a place that is quiet and calming.
- Use a generous amount of water-based lubricant on the vaginal trainer and the opening of the vagina. The use of a water-based lubricant is important to protect the medical grade silicone of the vaginal trainer.
- Select a vaginal trainer that looks appropriate for you or that a health care provider has suggested.
- Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and feet planted.
- Begin your training by breathing in and allowing your belly to expand, followed by exhaling and allowing your belly to slowly fall. The act of slowly exhaling can naturally open the vagina. Repeat the deep breathing pattern, and continue to do so steadily and deliberately. Gently bring the vaginal trainer to the opening of the vagina and carefully insert it on an exhale.
- Keep the vaginal trainer inserted in the vagina and repeat the slow, deep breathing cycle for 15 to 20 minutes. Tissue change to lengthen and open the vagina requires small amounts of stretching for prolonged periods of time in order to make an impact. You want the trainer to feel as comfortable as possible and not painful.
- If you experience discomfort, visual imagery is helpful for relaxing the pelvic floor muscles around the opening of the vagina. There are several images that can work. Pick the one that is best for you: Imagine that the vagina is like a rose, blooming outward and opening; imagine that the vagina is like an umbrella, opening and expanding; or imagine that the vagina is like an elastic band, flexible and mobile.
- Repeat this process one or two times per day, and progress to larger trainers according to your goals.
Learn more about how breathing affects pain.
Intimate Rose Vaginal Dilators Offer a Uniquely Different Product With Exceptional Value
Intimate Rose dilators are a cost-effective way for women with AIS and MRKH syndrome to reach their goals. Training videos and informative educational materials coupled with exceptional customer service have led to many success stories for women from all ages and walks of life.