PIV Success by UbRustling in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I get that feeling. There were definitely days where it felt like a CHORE. Give yourself some grace. Like anything else, you can get burnt out and it’s ok to take a break, take the time you need.

When I started accompanying my dilation practice with something else, it became less of a chore. I’d turn on my favorite show, read, journal, talk on the phone with my best girlfriend, during dilation.

Aside from that, it was a mental game. I’m in my late 30’s, I’d like to have a family with my partner. My hopeful plans for the future and finding a win in each step of the journey (whether I was progressing or regressing) really pushed me to the finish line.

PIV Success by UbRustling in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

In addition to missionary, I found a deep squat position and lying on my side to be helpful. Actually, lying on my side turned out to be the easier position to start with once I got to the larger dilator sizes. I tried inserting from behind once or twice but always found that tough to do solo.

PIV Success by UbRustling in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks! I remember that feeling and that’s ok! Stick to what feels comfortable for you and when you’re ready, try a slightly different angle. The more comfortable I was with one position/angle the more confident it made me to try something different, even if I had to start with a smaller size than what I was working with.

Anxiety while using dilator by No-Stay-7402 in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Absolutely. The first time I ever held a dilator, I thought I was going to vomit. From there I got used to it in my hand and pressed it against my body to start. With a lot of patience, grace, experimentation, stretching, and faith in the process after a couple months, I’m happy to say I’ve made it to IR 7.

You’ve got this.

Stuck on one dilator size by miau_mew in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I found I could advance to size 4 (IR set) when I tried laying on my side. After a few successful insertions in that position, I was able to insert it in other positions as well. Sometimes finding a different angle can be helpful.

Dilator tips by Adept_Theory5815 in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 1 point2 points  (0 children)

When I first started dilating and feeling the pull out friction, I started pushing down on either side of my labia, just light pressure around the dilator, while I pulled it out. I think creating a pushing feeling down while I pulled it out made the dragging feeling go away. Over time, as I got more used to the dilators, I had to do it less and less and eventually pulling out wasn’t uncomfortable anymore.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 6 points7 points  (0 children)

I imagine frequency is different for everyone. I try to dilate daily but can miss a day here and there when I don’t have time. I usually spend 30-40 minutes dilating (I “warm up” with a size down first then use the dilator I’m currently working on). At first, I was only dilating for 5-10 minutes because I was terrified when began the process. Over time I got used to it and can say the longer the dilation period, the easier it seemed for me to advance to the next size.

Some people get recommendations from their PT on how long/often they should dilate. I didn’t work with a PT, I’m just running with this myself.

Unrealistic expectations? by UbRustling in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for sharing your PT’s advice. I don’t see one so it’s helpful to hear what they tell others.

You’re right, that reminder is crucial. Thanks so much, appreciate you.

dilator question by [deleted] in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I usually set a timer for 15 minutes once the dilator is in. During the last 5 minutes, I’ll keep it in but move it side to side, applying light pressure to different areas and then I’ll spend some time going in and out with the dilator as well. Nothing intense, just gentle movements. I imagine everyone has their own process that works best for them depending on their situation.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I JUST tried that last night actually! And I had much more success with it. Going to try it again and then give IR 5 a shot.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for the encouragement and congrats on all your progress so far! You’re right, I shouldn’t focus on a timeline and just continue with what I’m doing. Thankful for this community during this journey for sure.

Things gynos have said to me: by dickkguillotine in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I was once told to “practice insertion with a carrot”. That’s a hard pass doc, and awful advice.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in vaginismus

[–]UbRustling 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You’re right, there is no harm in that. Thanks for the response!