Like all our organs, the vagina and vulva are not immune to the effects of time. Menopause is also a major contributor as the vagina is affected by declining oestrogen production.
Approximately half of women aged in their forties and beyond experience symptoms of genital atrophy which can significantly affect their sexual experience and quality of life. For many women, the vagina is no longer at its optimum state and as a result, the sensual side of sexual gratification is diminished.
Laser vaginal rejuvenation (LVR) is a new, non-surgical procedure for treating age-related vaginal atrophy. It is a safe, effective and long-lasting solution without the adverse side effects of drug therapies.
This procedure may also assist with urinary incontinence (involuntary loss of urine with laughing, coughing, sneezing or exercising). Women who have had children want a solution to rejuvenate the vagina and achieve the best sexual experience possible.
Procedure
Discuss all your medical history, and list all of the medications, vitamins and herbs you are taking, with your doctor. Discontinue using Aspirin (including medications that contain Aspirin), Ibuprofen, Naprosyn, St. John’s Wort, Vitamin E and other supplements as directed as these act as blood thinners and could cause excessive bruising, bleeding or other complications. If you smoke you will need to stop smoking for at least two weeks before and one week after treatment, as smoking can impair circulation and healing.
This is generally a fast and effective treatment that uses laser energy to stimulate collagen production and regeneration of normal vaginal tissue. It uses the same proven laser technology that has been used for the past 15 years to rejuvenate the sensitive skin on the face.
The laser is inserted through the vaginal opening and laser light is applied to the mucosal tissue of the vagina. The treatment regenerates important structures that are responsible for maintaining vaginal elasticity. Most treatments only require one hour, but the beneficial effects will continue to develop over the following months as collagen and tissue tightness is restored.
Risks and Complications
The risks and complications that come with this type of procedure are rare. Naturally, it is important to contact your doctor or surgery to advise of any complications or concerns you may have treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How long does it take to recover? A. The recovery process is different for everyone, but within a day you should be back to normal activities. Pain medication will be prescribed to control any discomfort; however, if you begin to have severe pain, contact your doctor immediately. The changes from vaginal laser treatment are long-lasting. As the natural ageing process continues, top-up treatments can be repeated as required.
Q. Is the treatment painful? A. Pain medications may be prescribed to help alleviate the discomfort, but most women report there is minimal to no pain with this procedure.
