“Vaginal rejuvenation” is a general term – often used in marketing – to refer to various surgical and non-surgical treatments that change the aesthetics (appearance, function or feel) of the female genitalia. While there is some overlap with medically necessary procedures, vaginal rejuvenation is usually an elective cosmetic procedure.
This article examines non-surgical and surgical vaginal resuscitation, why one might consider these procedures, their effectiveness, estimated costs, possible side effects, and the types of health care providers who perform these procedures.
Mindful Media/Getty Images
What is vaginal resuscitation?
Marketers may use the term “vaginal rejuvenation” broadly to include procedures that address medical issues in the vaginal area. This is misleading because it blurs the line between cosmetic and medical procedures.
Vaginal rejuvenation refers to various cosmetic procedures that modify the appearance of the female genitalia, including the vagina and vulva (external female genitalia that surround the vagina).
Female genitalia include:
- Sinus: The tube that leads to the uterus (womb), where you would insert a tampon
- Big lips: Large “lips” or folds of skin, outside the vagina
- Small lips: Small “lips” that sit right inside or extend just beyond the labia majora
- Mons pubis: Fleshy area at the front of the pelvic bone (between the hips) where pubic hair usually grows
- Clitoris: Spongy shaft (covered by a fold of skin) that sits above the urethra (where urine exits the body) and below the pubic urethra. Its function includes sexual stimulation and pleasure
- Perineum: Area between the vaginal opening and the anus (where faeces leave the body)
Female genitalia vary and often change during puberty, age, pregnancy or menopause. There is no standard for “normal” or “attractive”.
Vaginal resuscitation is optional and the decision to have this type of procedure is a personal one. If it helps you feel more confident and satisfied, it’s a valid choice. Don’t let outside pressures dictate what makes you feel sexually desirable.
Before deciding to have elective vaginal resuscitation, do your research, talk to trusted loved ones, and consult with your health care providers. The decision should align with what is right for you.
Non-surgical types
Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation procedures are minimally invasive procedures performed by healthcare providers to improve the appearance of the female genital area. They include:
- Laser or radio frequency (RF) therapy. uses controlled energy that stimulates collagen (a protein that maintains elasticity and strength in tissues and muscles) to tighten and tighten the skin in the vaginal area.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. is an injection of your own platelets into the vaginal tissues. Platelets are tiny cells in the blood that help heal and repair tissues. PRP aims to promote tissue repair in the vaginal area, potentially improving appearance and enhancing sexual pleasure. These injections are also known as “O (orgasm) injections” when given in the clitoris and “G (Grafenburg) injections” when given in an erogenous zone within the vagina.
- Dermal fillers Injectable dermal fillers can enhance the volume and shape of labia majora, giving them a more youthful appearance.
Surgical types
The following are examples of female genital surgery:
- Lipoplasty: Reshaping or reducing the size of the labia minora, a common option for those with enlarged or uneven lips
- Colpoplasty: Tightening of the vaginal canal by repairing or removing excess vaginal tissue to form a narrower vaginal canal
- Perineoplasty: Reconstruction of the perineal area (between vagina and anus)
- Reduction of clitoral hood: Removal of excess tissue above the clitoris
- Mons pubis reduction: Removal of excess skin and fatty tissue from the mons pubis
Effectiveness of Vaginal Resuscitation
The effectiveness of non-surgical and surgical vaginal resuscitation depends on the individual and their goals. Some people experience positive results with nonsurgical treatments, but the scientific evidence supporting their long-term effectiveness is still evolving.
Preliminary studies show that O shots and G shots enhance orgasm for some, but are unlikely to help those who have never achieved orgasm. Non-surgical options also typically require multiple treatments for continued maintenance or to achieve desired results. For example, the G vaccine requires repeat injections every three to five months.
With laser and RF treatment, the timing of results depends on the procedure. Some see tightening of the labia majora immediately with RF, but it may take a month to see results with laser treatment.
Surgical options such as labiaplasty and labiaplasty tend to have long-lasting cosmetic results. For example, a vaginoplasty surgery is extremely effective if you aim to achieve vaginal tightening. However, there is no guarantee that cosmetic genital surgery will improve your libido (sex drive) or sexual pleasure.
When is vaginal resuscitation medically necessary?
Vaginal resuscitation may be medically necessary to correct structural or functional problems or reduce pain. If you experience irritation from excess lip tissue, you may be a candidate for a medically necessary labiaplasty. If you feel discomfort or experience sexual arousal dysfunction, you may choose to have a clitoral hood reduction. A colpoplasty can also be part of gender confirmation surgery.
Reconstructive surgery may be necessary to repair or restore structures, tissue damage, or scarring after trauma. Trauma can be caused by sexual assault, self-harm to the genitals, accidents, injuries, sports activities, childbirth or surgery.
Pelvic floor reconstruction vs. vaginal rejuvenation
Damage to the pelvic floor (muscles that support the bladder, vagina, uterus, and rectum) can occur with childbirth, hormonal changes, or aging. It can cause incontinence (leakage of urine or stool), urinary tract infections, painful sex, or pelvic organ prolapse (movement of organs into the vagina).
Pelvic floor reconstruction overlaps with vaginal rejuvenation as colpoplasty and perineoplasty are usually part of the surgery. But pelvic floor restoration is medically necessary, not cosmetic.
Those with vaginal tightness or pain, urinary incontinence, or painful intercourse may want to consider the following home remedies:
- Kegel exercises: Kegel exercises (squeezing and releasing the muscle you use to stop the flow of urine) are a simple and natural way to exercise your pelvic floor muscles. You can run them discreetly anywhere, anytime. This can help improve vaginal muscle tone, urinary control (urine) and sexual satisfaction.
- Diastolic therapy: This is a gentle, non-surgical approach that helps reduce vaginal tightness and painful intercourse. Dilator therapy may be helpful after childbirth, certain cancer treatments, surgery, radiation, a hysterectomy, or menopause. It involves using smooth plastic or silicone rollers to gradually stretch and relax the vaginal muscles.
- Vaginal moisturizers, lubricants and estrogen creams: Moisturizers are preventative treatments meant for long-term, consistent use. Lubricants are most suitable for use immediately before intercourse. They help reduce vaginal dryness and discomfort, especially during sex.
- Vaginal estrogen: Postmenopausal people may benefit from a prescription vaginal cream or ring with estrogen. Helps restore moisture and reduce dryness and pain in the vagina and vulva (area outside the vagina).
Economics: Estimated cost of vaginal resuscitation
The cost of vaginal resuscitation depends on the region or geographic location and the provider. According to the Aesthetic Society, the average price of non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation is $1,236 per session. However, non-surgical treatments may require multiple sessions for optimal results.
Surgical options such as vaginoplasty or labiaplasty can range from $3,000 to $8,000 or more. The average cost is as follows:
- Clit Hood Reduction: $1,524
- Labiaplasty: $3,665
- Colpoplasty: $2,739
These costs may not include anesthesia, lab work, surgical setup, or other costs.
Most insurance plans do not cover vaginal rejuvenation because it is an optional cosmetic procedure. But it may be covered if it’s part of a medically necessary procedure. It is always a good idea to check with your insurance company before any procedure.
Side effects you should know about
Some temporary discomfort and swelling are common after non-surgical and surgical treatments. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about certain laser devices and products, noting that they may cause the following side effects:
- Vaginal burns
- Scars
- Pain during intercourse
- Recurrent/chronic vaginal pain
As with any surgery, there is a risk of bleeding, infection and scarring. The risks of cosmetic female genital surgery also include:
- Chronic (long-lasting) pain
- Decreased sensation (transient or chronic)
- Painful sex
- Need for additional surgeries
Type of provider performing CPR
A plastic surgeon or obstetrician-gynecologist (ob-gyn) performs vaginal rejuvenation procedures. It’s important to find someone with experience who explains the risks and with whom you feel comfortable discussing your goals. They should take the time to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Summary
Vaginal rejuvenation is a general term used to describe various non-surgical and surgical procedures to change the appearance, function or feel of the vagina. While some of these procedures may be necessary due to medical concerns, they are usually considered elective and cosmetic. When considering these procedures, it is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider who specializes in female genital surgery.
