Simple vaginal procedure can make women’s lives better

By Audrey Klenke CONTRIBUTOR

Vaginal rejuvenation is a topic that’s rarely discussed in public forums. Consequently, there are many misconceptions and queries surrounding this non-surgical procedure. We will answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you decide if non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation is for you.

Who needs vaginal rejuvenation?

• Ladies who have noticed that sexual intercourse has become less pleasurable and sometimes downright painful due to dryness, decreased sensation and other changes, making it difficult or impossible to achieve orgasm.

• Ladies who have noticed what seems to be laxity or a widening of the vaginal opening and/or the vaginal canal.

• Ladies who see an elongated, sagging labia minora, which can also sometimes get in the way of sex.

• And ladies who experience stress urinary incontinence (that pesky urine leak with activities like jumping, sneezing or coughing).

What is the procedure like? The most effective non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation will utilize a device that harnesses the power of radiofrequency and ultrasound introduced both into the vaginal canal as well as applied externally. This small and comfortable device is gently inserted while the patient relaxes in a semi-reclined position. The treatment is painless and only takes 8 minutes for the vaginal portion.

The energy from the device stimulates blood flow and the body then generates new and stronger collagen fibers. A series of four treatments once weekly is recommended with two annual maintenance treatments.

Can vaginal rejuvenation help with menopause symptoms? Yes! Menopause symptoms are related to changes in hormone levels and include vaginal dryness, decreased sensitivity and libido, incontinence issues and painful sex. Vaginal rejuvenation can help many of these symptoms and often is considered a facelift for the vagina and vulva.

Is vaginal rejuvenation safe? Absolutely! Vaginal rejuvenation has been cleared as a safe treatment and presents minimal side effects for women. The procedure is non-surgical, so no incisions are made. The majority of women are candidates for the procedure but there are a few individuals who might not be eligible, including women who may be pregnant, or those with an IUD, vaginal or urinary tract infections, undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding, a history of abnormal pap smears, or endometriosis. Is there any downtime after the procedure? Zero! You can resume all activities, even intimacy, as you wish. Some women feel warmth in the vaginal area and some tingling sensations for a short time. Empowerment through understanding. It can be intimidating to think about any kind of procedure in the single most sensitive area of the female body. But vaginal rejuvenation offers so much more than you might think.

Vaginal rejuvenation recharges the feminine libido, makes sex more pleasurable, reduces stress urinary incontinence, improves the external appearance, and can alleviate some of the most common symptoms of menopause.

Start the conversation with a qualified provider today and make every moment more enjoyable!

Dr. Audrey A. Klenke, MD, FACS, is a co-owner and medical director of Pinnacle Plastic Surgery, Pinnacle Dermatology and Pure Medical Spa with offices in Bluffton and Beaufort.