Vaginal Rejuvenation via CO2 Laser is well tolerated and the treatments were associated with improvement in vaginal health, with long-term patient satisfaction levels reported as “high”.
CO2 lasers like the Rohrer Phoenix Rejuvenate are considered fractional lasers. Much of the existing research has been done using fractional lasers. The fractional approach simply means that the thermal energy is delivered in a fractional pattern. This is important as the healthy tissue is left surrounding each ablation area, in a pattern, which helps support more rapid epithelial repair and collagen production (and elastin fiber formation that provides the firmer and tighter tissue, reducing the “looseness” or “laxity” of the vagina). Fractional CO2 laser treatments have been shown to improve vaginal atrophy symptoms, and biopsies show that the vaginal wall epithelium is thicker and healthier (actually resembling a non-atrophied vaginal state). This means more natural lubrication and elasticity.
CO2 laser therapy is a simple procedure taking 5-20 minutes. It involves introducing the laser device into the vagina while rotating it and slowly and withdrawing it. Three treatments are required at intervals of 4-6 weeks, with increasing energy, and results may last as much as a year. The staff will pre-medicate to keep discomfort to a minimum. A series of three treatments cost $1,500 and is not covered by insurance.
The Advantages Behind Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation
There have been a number of studies relating to the use of lasers in both perimenopause and postmenopausal women with clinical symptoms of vaginal atrophy. This again includes symptoms of dryness, weakened and thinning vaginal walls, discomfort during intercourse, pelvic prolapse, urinary incontinence, and loss of libido. In summary, if you suffer from the following, perhaps you need to see our staff for more information:
- Reducing vaginal dryness,
- Reducing pain during intercourse,
- Improving vaginal pH in order to reduce recurring infections
- Resolving incontinence (involuntary urinary leakage… that annoying peeing when you laugh, cough or sneeze!), pelvic prolapse (when your pelvic floor muscles weaken and organs literally start to fall downward!), and more.
Post Treatment Instructions:
AFTER CARE: • Refrain from intercourse, tampon use, exercise, heavy lifting, or straining during the first 24 hours. • You may shower or bathe after these procedures.
WHAT TO EXPECT: • There should be little to no discomfort after these procedures, • You may experience urinary symptoms of urgency or difficulty with urination, which is temporary. • Spotting may occur. • There may be watery or grey discharge for 1- 2 days. • You should expect to see results in 3 weeks to 3 months; multiple treatments may be required.
WHEN TO CALL: • If you have increased swelling, bruising or bleeding. • If you have any yellowish or greenish drainage, or notice a foul odor, or have reactivation of HSV. • If you have pain that is difficult to control with Tylenol.