Hi phia2020! First of all, congratulations on your success so far with dilating – getting to the second dilator is a big deal! I looked up the lubricant you’re using and honestly it looks like it could be the issue. Water-based lubes dry out really quickly and I much prefer a lube with a silicone blend (Sliquid is a great brand), or even organic coconut oil, which is a great lube substitute.
A slight “burning” feeling in the vagina after dilating is normal – that’s your muscles stretching! It’s how it’s “supposed” to feel (if you’ve ever taken up a new exercise routine, think about how your body hurts the next day in all the places it’s not used to being worked) and it means that the dilation is working. I know this feeling can be sort of concerning at first, especially since vaginismus already involves a feeling of sexual pain, but the sore burning sensation means you’re making progress and your vagina is getting used to penetration.
I think the pain will get less acute if you get a better lube like a silicone blend or coconut oil. I will say, if the pain of dilation ever feels SHARP or stabbing immediately, stop and don’t further hurt yourself. But next-day burning is a part of the process and is a sign that you’re making progress!
