Quick answer
Insert a vaginal dilator by first relaxing your pelvic floor with slow breathing, applying a generous amount of water-based lubricant to both the dilator and the vaginal opening, and then gently sliding the dilator in at a downward angle while exhaling. Stop if you feel sharp pain, and never force progress. With the Kegel8 Silicone Vaginal Dilators, the unique lubricant channel helps distribute lubricant along the length of the dilator as you insert, which can make the process smoother and more comfortable.
Prepare your body and your space
Before you begin, set aside 10–15 minutes in a private, warm room where you won't be interrupted. Empty your bladder first, as a full bladder can add pressure and make insertion less comfortable. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and have your dilator, lubricant, and a towel within reach. If you're working with a pelvic floor physiotherapist, follow their specific guidance on positioning and timing. Otherwise, lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the bed (or a pillow under your hips) is a common starting position that allows your pelvic floor to relax.
Choose the right dilator size and apply lubricant
Start with the smallest dilator in your set, even if you feel you could manage a larger one. The goal is to build confidence and allow your muscles to adjust without triggering a pain response. Apply a generous amount of water-based lubricant to the tip and shaft of the dilator. If you're using the Kegel8 Silicone Vaginal Dilators, take advantage of the unique lubricant channel: apply lubricant to the channel opening, and as you insert, the lubricant will spread along the dilator's length, reducing friction. Also apply a small amount of lubricant to the vaginal opening. Avoid oil-based or silicone-based lubricants if you're using silicone dilators, as they can degrade the material.
Relax your pelvic floor with breathing
Tension in your pelvic floor is the most common barrier to comfortable insertion. Take five slow, deep breaths, allowing your belly to rise on the inhale and fall on the exhale. On each exhale, consciously let go of any gripping in your vaginal and anal sphincter muscles. You can also try a gentle pelvic floor drop: imagine your pelvic floor softening and lengthening downward. If you're unsure whether you're relaxing, place a clean finger just inside the vaginal opening and feel for a softening sensation. Never bear down or push; that tightens the muscles and makes insertion harder.
Insert the dilator slowly and at the right angle
Hold the dilator with your dominant hand, as you would a tampon. With your other hand, gently separate the labia. Position the tip at the vaginal opening and angle it slightly downward toward your tailbone, not straight up toward your head. As you exhale, slowly and steadily slide the dilator in. If you meet resistance, pause, take a breath, and wait for the muscles to relax before continuing. Never push through sharp pain. A mild stretching or pressure sensation is normal; a burning or stinging pain is a signal to stop and try again later or with a smaller size. Once the dilator is in, leave it in place for the time recommended by your healthcare provider, usually 5–15 minutes.
Remove the dilator gently and clean it properly
To remove the dilator, gently bear down slightly as if you were starting a bowel movement, and slowly slide it out. Avoid pulling it out quickly, which can cause a spasm. After use, wash the dilator with warm water and mild, unscented soap, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel. Store it in its case or a clean, dry container. The Kegel8 Silicone Vaginal Dilators are made from soft, body-friendly silicone, which is easy to clean and gentle on sensitive tissue. Check the manufacturer's instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations.
Step-by-step: Comfortable dilator insertion
- Set the scene: Choose a private, warm space and set aside 10–15 minutes. Empty your bladder, wash your hands, and gather your dilator, water-based lubricant, and a towel. Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat. Checkpoint: You feel unhurried and physically comfortable before you begin.
- Lubricate generously: Apply water-based lubricant to the dilator tip and shaft. If using the Kegel8 Silicone Vaginal Dilators, apply lubricant to the unique lubricant channel so it spreads during insertion. Add a little lubricant to the vaginal opening. Common mistake: Using too little lubricant or an oil-based product that can damage silicone.
- Breathe and relax your pelvic floor: Take five slow, deep breaths. On each exhale, soften your pelvic floor muscles. Avoid bearing down, which tightens the muscles. You can check relaxation by feeling for a softening with a clean finger. Checkpoint: Your pelvic floor feels soft and yielding, not gripping.
- Insert slowly at a downward angle: Hold the dilator like a tampon, separate the labia, and place the tip at the opening. Angle it slightly downward toward your tailbone. As you exhale, slide it in slowly. If you feel resistance, pause and breathe until it subsides. Common mistake: Pushing through sharp pain. Stop if it hurts.
- Leave it in and then remove gently: Keep the dilator in place for 5–15 minutes as advised by your provider. To remove, bear down slightly and slide it out slowly. Clean with warm water and mild soap, then dry and store. Next step: Progress to the next size only when the current size feels comfortable and pain-free.
Product facts
- Kegel8 Silicone Vaginal Dilators With Unique Lubricant Channel: Soft body-friendly silicone with a unique lubricant channel; clinically trusted; designed for real women managing real conditions. The lubricant channel helps spread lubricant along the dilator during insertion, reducing friction and making the process more comfortable, especially for those with tightness or pain.
