Dilators

Hi Lon

When I had finished the brachytherapy I was told to start using the dilators 4 weeks after my last session.

The nurse who carried out your brachytherapy should have given you her name & contact number if you had any worries or concerns.  Give her a call or your CNS and they’ll be able to assist you with when you should start them.

Linda 

Hi Lon

Please don't worry too much. The thought and anticipation of using them was far worse than the reality. 

I didn't have brachytherapy but had external beam radiotherapy. From what I remember it was around a month when I started using them. Start with the smallest and use lubrication and if it feels uncomfortable- stop. Just build up slowly. If you can only just insert it a little way- then try that first. And find a time when you feel most comfortable and will be able to relax and not feel you will be disturbed. 

And if you do struggle then speak to your CNS again who may be able to suggest alternatives- eg; smaller size, softer plastic. I didn't find it painful but I did feel nervous the first couple of times however you can soon get into a routine. I just tried to focus on that it was better to use now and to prevent stenosis and other problems than to put it off and then there could be scar tissue forming. 

This link has some good advice.

Vaginal changes after pelvic radiotherapy | Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust (jostrust.org.uk)

If you are still finding it stressful then maybe consider giving the Support Line a call and getting some advice from one of the nurses. They really would understand.

Jane

Hi Lon, I had radio and 2 x brachy. I was given my little pack of dilators and a small bottle of Sylk lubricant and actually gently tried the smallest one just before my brachytherapy planning CT. I found just before a bath was a good idea, as then you can wash away the lubricant afterwards, though my brachy nurse said that some ladies prefer to try it after a bath (or shower) as they may be more relaxed. I ordered a vibrator too, which is silicone, which felt more comfortable. I tended to use the vibrator if I had time to enjoy the experience, or the plastic ones if I didn’t have as much time. I’m almost two years down the line so still use it but not as often. 

Hi Lon Like you I was very nervous using dilators I started using mine 2 months after  my brachytherapy I found the plastic dilators uncomfortable I switch  to silicone found that they were more comfortable try to use them every day if not every 3 days and get  yes ob lubricant available from Superdrug next time I see consultant I will ask how long I have to use them for good luck

Hi , where did you get the silicone onces from ?

Coffee19, mine said to use for at least a year, but I’m almost two years post treatment and still use mine occasionally.

Ann Summers there 3 in a set I use the 2nd size hope that helps

Thanks for that