Vulvia Cancer

[Bear70]

I am recovering from Vulvia cancer had 26 treatments of Radiotherapy and 6 of chemotherapy in June/July last year. I am healing well though I still get a little itchy and I was told to use dilators which if I use size no 2 can cause me to bleed a little is this normal. my Macmillan nurse said to me in December that theses things take time to heal. But has any one else experienced this.

[clareB43]

Hi,

If it hurts or bleeds then you stop and go back down a size for a while before trying the next size up.

Use lots of lubricant and use for 10 /15 mins at least 3 times a week , more if you can.

I can only go to the third size of the silicone 5 size ones.

I had the plastic nhs ones but found uncomfortable.

[Bear70 in reply to clareB43]

Thanks for that have only been using once a week so will definitely try more often.

[clareB43 in reply to Bear70]

I also start with the smallest first for couple min to get used to it again then move up to next size for another 10 min.

Move them about slowly as well. Once comfortable rotate the dilator in circular motion.

[AskEveTeam]

Hello,

We are really pleased to hear you are healing well after your treatment.

Yes we do see bleeding sometimes on the fragile healing skin when using the dilators this is normal. Do talk with your Macmillan nurse she can advise you about lubrication you can use that will help with this.

Best Wishes,

The Ask Eve Team