As we celebrate Nonbinary Awareness Week, we want to take a moment to honour you. If you’ve recently had vaginoplasty, or are considering it, we know that healing is more than physical. It’s emotional, personal and deeply meaningful. One of the most important parts of post-op care? Dilation.1
When transitioning from male to female, a neo-vagina is created, and vaginal dilation is an essential part of post-surgical care to prevent the new vaginal canal from shortening or narrowing, also known as stenosis.1.1 In addition to reducing the size of the vaginal canal, a lack of dilation can also result in thinner and dryer vaginal walls, which can lead to pain during sex.1.2 After vaginoplasty, your body sees the newly created vaginal canal as a wound – and like any wound, the body wants to close it. That’s why regular dilation is critical. It helps maintain the depth, width, and flexibility of the neo-vagina. 2.1
Vaginal dilators are smooth, tube-shaped tools that help gently stretch vaginal tissues. They’re often used to ease discomfort with penetration, reduce pain during sex, and keep the vaginal canal open after surgery. After vaginoplasty (SRS), dilators are especially important – they help prevent the new vaginal canal from tightening or shrinking, and prepare the area for comfortable, enjoyable intimacy.1.3
The first year after vaginoplasty is a critical window for healing. During this time, your body is especially prone to scar tissue formation and closure of the vaginal canal if dilation isn’t done consistently. That’s why surgeons prescribe structured dilation routines – and why sticking to them is so important for maintaining depth, flexibility and long-term comfort.2.2 Dilation isn’t just about post-surgery healing though – it can be a moment of reconnection and empowerment. For some, it’s a quiet ritual of reclaiming their body. For others, it’s a challenge that requires patience and support. Wherever you are, know this: you’re not alone, and there are tools to help.
Everyone’s journey is different, so always check in with your care team before making any changes to your dilation routine. They will help you find what suits your body, your healing stage and your goals. Let’s take a look at two different dilator designs – and how their shapes could support you post-vaginoplasty.
Originally developed to support women recovering from radiotherapy, the Amielle Care set’s flat-topped shape is designed to gently press against the vaginal apex, helping to prevent narrowing (stenosis), maintain vaginal elasticity and reduce the likelihood of scar tissue forming. Developed with the UK National Forum of Gynaecological Oncology Nurses (NFGON), the set includes four graduated sizes, allowing you to progress at your own pace – with a universal handle for easy, controlled use.
Designed in collaboration with psychosexual therapists, the Amielle Comfort set includes five tapered dilators for gentle, progressive dilation. Originally created to tackle vaginismus4 (involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles) and dyspareunia (pain before, after or during sex)5, the gradual taper design allows for a more comfortable insertion experience. With five sizes to progress through, Amielle Comfort supports a slow, steady approach which could be especially helpful if you're just starting out or dealing with sensitivity.
1. Create a calming space: light a candle, play music or use affirmations to make the experience feel nurturing.
2. Use plenty of water-based lubricant to reduce friction and discomfort.
3. Listen to your body: if you feel pain, pause. Consider speaking with a pelvic floor therapist who has experience with trans care.
4. Celebrate small wins: every session is a step toward healing and self-connection.
Healing after vaginoplasty is a journey – and like all journeys, it’s okay to take it one day at a time. This Nonbinary Awareness Week and beyond, we’re here for you – with compassion, community and care at every step. Whether you’re just starting dilation or adjusting to a long-term routine, remember: you’re doing something meaningful for yourself and your future.
If you’re feeling discomfort, uncertainty, or facing complications, always speak to your healthcare professional. Your care team is there to support you – and so are we.
1. My Vagina. (n.d.). Caring for your neovagina: A comprehensive aftercare guide. [online] Available at: https://myvagina.com/caring-for-your-neovagina-a-comprehensive-aftercare-guide/ [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025].
2. The Pelvic Hub. (n.d.). Do I have to use dilators forever after SRS? [online] Available at: https://www.thepelvichub.com/blogs/ask-the-experts/do-i-have-to-use-dilators-forever-after-srs [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025].
3. VuVaTech. (2025). Do trans women have to dilate forever? A realistic, trauma-informed guide to life after vaginoplasty. [online] Available at: https://www.vuvatech.com/blogs/care/do-trans-women-have-to-dilate-forever-a-realistic-trauma-informed-guide-to-life-after-vaginoplasty [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025].
4. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Vaginismus: Dyspareunia, causes, symptoms, treatment. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15723-vaginismus [Accessed 9 Jul. 2025].
5. Reissing, E.D. and Armstrong, H.L. (2023). Vaginismus. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562159/ [Accessed 9 Jul. 2025].
