How does non-surgical vaginal resuscitation work? A doctor explains
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- Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation can help with issues such as vaginal relaxation and urinary incontinence.
- The treatments combine radio frequency and ultrasound technology to “gently heat and shrink the collagen fibers.”
- Dr. Taheera Hassim advises anyone interested in these treatments to talk to their doctor and have an open and honest discussion first.
Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments are on the rise, treating issues such as vaginal relaxation, urinary incontinence and more.
“The physical changes caused by aging or childbirth are among the most common, yet least discussed, experiences for many women. These changes in the body can affect a woman’s overall well-being and quality of life, as well as her sexual health and confidence It is important to discuss these everyday healthcare issues as many women are unaware of the non-invasive solutions available,” says Dr Taheera Hassim, an obstetrician and gynecologist practicing at Netcare Sunninghill Hospital, in a press statement.
Vaginal tissue relaxation, incontinence, vaginal dryness and decreased sexual pleasure can, in many cases, be improved without the need for surgery.
“Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation can boost collagen production, which is important for providing strength and support to your skin, muscles, connective tissue and bones. This increase in collagen production results in skin tightening and vaginal tissue and can have huge benefits in treating functional problems such as incontinence and atrophic vaginitis or dryness, as well as improving the feeling of pleasure during intercourse.’
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Energy based therapies
Energy-based vaginal rejuvenation treatments use thermal or non-thermal energy and are becoming increasingly popular.
According to Dr. Hassim, the treatments combine radio frequency and ultrasound technology to “gently heat and shrink the collagen fibers” and thereby “stimulate the natural production of collagen in the vaginal tissue.”
She further explains: “Treatments are delivered by a doctor in consultation rooms, offering an advanced, safe and effective non-invasive alternative to vaginal rejuvenation surgical procedures such as labiaplasty and vaginoplasty.”
Each session lasts approximately eight to sixteen minutes. A vaginal catheter is inserted into the vaginal canal and also passed over the outer lips of the vagina. To ensure comfort, the catheter has different application tips designed for different sizes and shapes of the vaginal canal. “This ensures that the treatment is not painful at all, although the catheter may feel warm. The temperature used is adjusted to suit individual patients’ heat tolerance and the heat is distributed evenly throughout the catheter, minimizing any discomfort.”
“Treatments are carried out once a week for three recommended sessions and normal daily activities can be resumed immediately after the procedure as any redness or mild swelling will disappear within a few hours. Patients can even resume sexual activity the same day.” says Dr. Hashim.
Some may notice improvement after their first session, but full results should usually be expected around three months after the last treatment, advises Hassim.
Who should consider non-surgical vaginal resuscitation?
Women experiencing the following may want to explore the option of non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation:
Vaginal relaxation (a loose or enlarged vagina).
Stress urinary incontinence (leakage of urine when jumping, sneezing, coughing or running).
Vaginal dryness (or atrophic vaginitis).
Frequent vaginal infections.
“As women age, they also have to deal with falling estrogen levels, which can also cause thinning and dryness of the vaginal walls and, ultimately, vaginal atrophy. urinary incontinence and pain during intercourse, among other issues. The same can happen to women who have to undergo radiation or chemotherapy,” says Dr. Hassim.
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As with any medical procedure, there are risks to be considered. “It is important that you are in good health and not currently pregnant to undergo this form of treatment.”
Dr. Hashim advises anyone interested in these treatments to talk to their doctor and have an open and honest discussion first. This will also help them determine if a surgical approach would be best for them.
“At the end of the day, every patient is different, and it’s important to work with your doctor to find the right treatment for you. Fortunately, with the development of these highly effective, non-invasive forms of treatment, women have many more options to choose from.”
