Q&A: Treating Vaginal Stenosis
Kathy writes: About six years ago, I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. At this time, I had a complete hysterectomy, which included removing my vagina. By use of a skin graft, the doctor made me a new one. I was not involved with someone at the time, so the dr suggested that I place a testtube in my vagina at night to keep it expanded. After a while, I stopped doing this, because, among other things, it was very, very uncomfortable (by the way, the dr. was a man, I'm sure a woman would have recommended something better). Now I have found someone, but as luck would have it, he's bigger than the average man, and we seemed to have a big problem. Do you know if it would be possible to somehow stretch the vagina again (it is not closed, just too small for him) or some surgery that I could have so that we could fit together without problems? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
First of all, Kathy, you really need to find an experienced doctor you can trust on this, and it is vital that it be someone with whom you can feel comfortable talking about this sensitive issue. Find a doctor that will take your problem seriously, including the discomfort you have had with the dilator in the past.
In my reading and researching this I have found 2 different approaches mentioned to manage vaginal stenosis. The most common is a combination of estrogen cream, Kegel exercises (to increase circulation to the area), and graduated dilators (starting out with a slimmer one and working up).
The other approach is surgical, usually involving grafting. Since you have already had grafting in this area, only an experienced surgeon could tell you what the prospects are for surgical correction. Please do what you need to do to get treatment, and let us know how things turn out for you.
Note to all: Kathy wasn't properly instructed in the importance of continuing to use the vaginal dilator after reconstructive surgery or radiation. Instructions generally are to use the dilator (or to have sexual intercourse) regularly (usually 3X per week is recommended) for life. This is important for future medical examinations as well as sexual intercourse.
Oncolink's FAQ on Cervical
Stenosis in Radiation Therapy contains instructions on using vaginal
dilators.
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