Rectal dilators are helpful for many different conditions. People with rectal/anal pain, fecal incontinence, complications from Crohn’s Disease/IBD, and painful anal intercourse often benefit from working with rectal dilators. Those with anal stenosis or scar tissue restrictions following cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery) for pelvic cancers are also great candidates for rectal dilators. They can be game changers when it comes to being able to relax and control your pelvic floor muscles rectally again.
For most people, the thought of using rectal dilators can be simultaneously confusing and terrifying. Thankfully, many products are on the market today that make rectal dilation both safe and easy. It’s important to find a set that has progressively larger dilators so that you can progress slowly and comfortably towards your dilation goals. You’ll need a lubricant to go with the dilators. Keep in mind that if your dilators are made of or lined with silicone, you’ll need to use a water-based lubricant.
- To begin, lie either on your side or your back with your dilator and lubricant within reach. It can be helpful to lie on a towel so you don’t have to worry about any mess. Place a generous amount of lubricant on both the anal opening and the end of the dilator.
- Place the tip of the dilator at a 45-90-degree angle to the rectum. Breathe deeply by inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth, then gently ease the dilator into the anus. Continue to breathe deeply and glide the dilator deeper with each breath. Do not push through any point of restriction. No pain should pass 2-3/10 severity.
- Continue to gently ease the dilator into the anus until the dilator is fully inserted, that is when the rim base is in contact with the outer skin of the anus.
- Keep the dilators in place for about 10-15 minutes focusing on diaphragmatic breathing during this time. It’s ok to distract yourself with other stationary activities (reading, watching a show, playing a game) so long as you can keep breathing.
- Wash with soap and water and pat dry.
- Once a dilator is easy to insert you may move up to the next dilator.
Reach out to your provider if you have any questions about the best strategies for your own body or experience any concerns.
Do not use rectal dilators if you have open wounds around the rectum or active pelvic infections. If you are pregnant, have undergone pelvic surgeries, or have received cancer-related treatment over the pelvic area, make sure to discuss whether you are appropriate for rectal dilation before beginning.