Abstract
Physiologic changes in a woman’s life, such as childbirth, weight fluctuations, and hormonal changes due to aging and menopause, may alter the laxity of the vaginal canal, damage the pelvic floor, and devitalize the mucosal tone of the vaginal wall.
These events often lead to the development of genitourinary conditions such as stress urinary incontinence, vaginal atrophy, dryness, and physiologic distress affecting a woman’s quality of life, self-confidence, and sexuality.
This review aims to present one of the available technologies “Co2 Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation” offering vaginal rejuvenation and the scientific evidence that underlines their safety and efficacy for this indication.
Introduction
STRESS URINARY INCONTINENCE is a commonly found problem in women. 35% of women over the age of 60 years suffer from Urinary Incontinence. It is caused by damage to pelvic support structures as a result of childbirth. Stress incontinence is often seen in women who have had more than one pregnancy and vaginal delivery. This results in leakage of small amount of urine with activities like coughing, sneezing, lifting, etc.
Among the new modalities being applied to feminine rejuvenation include CO2-based or erbium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Er:YAG) lasers and radiofrequency (RF)-based energy devices. By harnessing laser or RF waves to heat the connective tissue of the vaginal wall to 40 °C to 42 °C, these energy-based devices aim to induce collagen contraction, vascularization that ultimately revitalize and restore the elasticity and moisture of the vaginal mucosa.
Co2 Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation works via pulses of laser energy into the collagen layer of the vaginal mucosa, where concentrated thermal heating leads to collagen and elastin “shrinkage” and secondary regeneration, producing a tightening of the vaginal tissues.
How long does the result of Co2 Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation last?
Present data suggest that, with 3 treatments over a 12-week time period and especially with a “touch-up” after one year, the tightening and continence effects are experienced for at least 2-3 years or more, while the atrophic elasticity effects are ongoing with no need for further treatments in properly managed patients.
To summarize:
“Co2 Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation” is a unique technology and device which can give following advantages:
- Proven technology for safe, accurate and effective results
- Pain free vaginal remodeling and stress urinary incontinence
- Lunch break procedure at the Gynecology clinic (15 – 30 min)
- Long lasting results
- No need for Anesthesia
Conclusion
Laser and RF technologies are widely and successfully used for treatments in dermatology and aesthetic medicine, stimulating the remodeling tissue properties and inducing the production of new collagen and elastic fibers. In the hands of well-trained physicians, energy-based devices are likely to benefit millions of women by aiding them in reclaiming, relishing, and reveling in their femininity at full capacity. 🙂
