An interesting historical perspective.
I had a really interesting email from a reader who pointed me to this cartoon. The source of this cartoon described: the main joke [ which] was that it was not expected or approved behavior at the time for women to have their legs widely spread apart in public for any reason. In other words, the sailor is commenting on her manner of riding, rather than the direction she is going; and the pun on the place name “Stretchit” with “to stretch it”, implying that riding in such a way would stretch the woman’s vagina.
In case you cannot see it clearly, the woman is saying: “Pray is this the way to stretchit?” to which the sailor says: “Shiver my top-sails, my Lass, if I know a better way.”
Congenital absence of the vagina – results of conservative treatment.
Congenital absence of the vagina – results of conservative treatment
Creation of a vagina by repeated coital dilatation.
Creation of a vagina by repeated coital dilatation in four teens with vaginal agenesis
Nonsurgical Diagnosis and Management of Vaginal Agenesis.
Dilation as treatment for vaginal agenesis and hypoplasia: A pilot exploration of benefits and barriers as percieved by patients.
I like this article because it ways the costs and benefits to dilation therapy. It also reports the patients feelings, which as you know is my main focus. Also, just a sidenote, not only does this deal with MRKH but it also reports on CAH and other congenital anomalies.
Where can I get dilators?
I have recieved some questions regarding the source for dilators. I am not sure if it is the same everywhere but when I decided to undergo dilation therapy, the hospital provided the dilators I needed. As I progressed, I would recieve a new dilator that was one size up. However, if your hospital does not provide you with any dilators, they may be available at some education-oriented sex stores. For example, in Canada we have Venus Envy (http://www.venusenvy.ca/). Hope this helps!
Here are some alternative resources:
http://www.blushingbuyer.co.uk/product/281/amvagdil/amielle-comfort-vaginal-dilators.html
Creation of a Neovagina by the Frank Nonoperative Method.
A friend sent me this one. I’m passing it on to you for your interest.
The Formation of an Artificial Vagina without Operation (Frank method).
This is a historical article concerning dilation therapy. Note the language used towards those who chose to opt out of this therapy (“uncooperative” and “stupidity of the patient”). Keep in mind this article dates back to 1938 and that attitudes were different then.
Sexual Function in Women Treated with Dilators for Vaginal Agenesis.
I am posting this for your information, just so you can see what the literature is saying about sexual function following dilation therapy. Keep in mind that there is a psychological component to sex as well which can also impact how our body reacts physically.
Sexual function in Women treated with Dilators for Vaginal Agenesis
Should Progressive Perineal Dilation be Considered First Line Therapy for Vaginal Agenesis?
Should progressive perineal dilation be considered first line therapy for vaginal agenesis
