As women age, their bodies start to change and show the signs of getting old. The effects of aging, in particular, affect most women, particularly those who have given birth. These effects are more evident for women who have given birth to several children.
Now, as the aging process advances, the body starts to slow down the production of estrogen. This, in turn, results in a thinned vaginal wall, lack of- or reduced natural lubrication, and inflammation of the tissue. Although most of these changes are common in women who have reached menopause, they can also affect women during their pregnancy, when breastfeeding, or occur because of some medical treatments.
These changes are very inconvenient and uncomfortable—and no woman wishes to deal with them. However, the advancement in medical technology has brought forth several solutions to this problem—one being laser vagina rejuvenation (LVR). This is the perfect solution for women who are searching for an effective and non-invasive procedure.
So, what is laser vaginal rejuvenation?
This is a non-surgical laser procedure performed on women to rejuvenate the vagina. Laser vaginal rejuvenation helps in the restoration of the youthful thickness, as well as moisturizing the tissues. The procedure helps in addressing several issues, including:
- Pain and dissatisfaction during sexual intercourse
- Lack of sensation during intercourse
- Lack of natural lubrication
- Vaginal atrophy
- Vaginal dryness and inflammation
- Bladder leakage
Women who undergo this procedure say that they start experiencing enhanced sexual experience immediately. Laser vaginal rejuvenation has proved to be a safe and effective procedure in treating problematic urinary and vaginal problems associated with hormonal changes. It’s a procedure that helps in boosting sexual function, which in turn improves the quality of life.
How does LVR work?
The laser vaginal rejuvenation procedure typically involves two appointments. These appointments are set 4 – 6 weeks apart, depending on your current condition. However, certain conditions will need more than two appointments.
This procedure involves controlled laser heating, which helps in stimulating the production of collagen, as well as a new blood supply. The results of this procedure are improved elasticity and thickness of the vaginal wall.
In certain procedures like laser vaginal rejuvenation by Skinsational, your doctor will gently insert a small metallic rod into your vagina. The doctor will then pull back the rod slowly, as a laser beam makes tiny holes in your vaginal lining. These holes help in stimulating new tissue growth and blood flow in the vagina.
Laser vaginal rejuvenation is a very safe procedure. Thus, the emission of the laser beam happens in a pattern that doesn’t cause any damage to the vaginal wall. This treatment procedure has positive outcomes, as it provides relief from painful experiences during sex, which is commonly caused by vaginal dryness.
Besides, laser vaginal rejuvenation is not painful at all, and it takes only 10 minutes. So, you can easily resume your normal activities immediately after the procedure.
How to prepare for laser vaginal rejuvenation
First, you will need to consult with your doctor about why you want to undergo the procedure. Your surgeon will want to know your full medical history. This will help them in helping you make the necessary preparations. Besides, you will also need to discuss your goals and expectations during the consultation.
Make sure that you let your surgeon know any specific concerns that you have with the surgery. This will assist your doctor to prepare a customized treatment plan for you. Besides, make sure that you ask your doctor all the questions that you might have. If possible, prepare a list of questions and goals—any professional surgeon will not have a problem with answering this.
All in all, you should follow the following guideline when preparing for LVR:
- Avoid certain supplements or medications – you should stop using certain medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, as well as any other NSAIDs. In addition, you should stop taking supplements—not unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. Such medication and supplements can be blood thinners, which can lead to extreme bruising, excessive bleeding, as well as other serious complications. Your doctor should give you a complete list of all medications and supplements to avoid.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol consumption – you should stop smoking and taking alcohol for at least one month before and two weeks after the surgery. Nicotine can affect blood circulation and also delay healing. Taking alcohol before and after your surgery can weaken your immune system, thus slowing down your recovery.
Post-treatment care
As indicated earlier, laser vaginal treatment is very safe, with minimal side effects. However, some women complain of slight swelling and discomfort after LVR. However, these effects do disappear within a few days.
You should avoid sex or using a tampon within the first 7 days after the procedure. This is essential, as it allows your vaginal wall to heal and settle. Most patients start noticing improvement immediately after the procedure. Besides, there’s always a continuous improvement within the next few months.
The results of laser vaginal treatment should last about 18 – 24 months. After this, the procedure should be repeated after every 12 – 18 months.
