This study is testing a new program to help women who have had pelvic radiation therapy to use vaginal dilators more regularly. Vaginal dilators are important tools that can help prevent or treat vaginal narrowing (called vaginal stenosis), which can happen after radiation and make medical exams or sexual activity painful or difficult. Even though dilators are recommended, many women don't use them as often as needed. In Phase I of the study, individual qualitative interviews with patients in the target sample (N=20) and medical providers (N=10) will be used to inform the behavioral program development. In Phase II, the program will be refined through user testing interviews (N=12). In Phase III, 88 participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: * One group will receive the new behavioral program, which includes support and strategies to help with regular dilator use. * The other group will receive written educational materials (enhanced usual care). The study will look at how often and how long participants use their dilators, and whether the program helps reduce symptoms like pain or emotional distress. Participants will complete surveys at the beginning of the study and again at 3, 6, and 9 months, plus short monthly check-ins. The goal is to see if the program is helpful and easy to use, and to prepare for a larger study in the future.
Age range
18 Years
Sex
FEMALE
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Feasibility, as Measured by Session Completion and Attrition
Timeframe: 3 months post-baseline
Acceptability, as Measured by the Treatment Acceptability Questionnaire
Timeframe: 3 months post-baseline