Vaginal rejuvenation is a broad term for several types of procedures that are performed for cosmetic reasons or to correct age-related problems, such as incontinence or lack of lubrication in menopausal or post-menopausal women.
If you read my earlier posting, “What Your Mother Never Told You About Menopause,” you are aware of my experience with vaginal atrophy, which is the thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal wall. So, needless to say, when I came across an article written by Dr. Kristin Rojas, Board Certified Gynecologist, on laser-based vaginal rejuvenation, I was intrigued.
However, Dr. Rojas holds a very negative view of this procedure, stating that “the use of lasers in the vagina is not only ineffective but dangerous, and the FDA should immediately restrict such use.” She further explains that “the high heat of lasers causes thermal burns” and kills “segments of tissues,” leading to necrosis. Necrosis cannot be reversed. (You may read her opinion, dated February 22, 2022, on statnews.com.)
My further research on this topic led me to an FDA news release from Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D., dated July 30 2018 and updated August 2, 2018. He stipulates that using lasers or other energy-based devices for vaginal rejuvenation entails serious risks. Commissioner Gottlieb’s full news release can be found at fda.gov/news-events/.
As for my atrophied vagina, I will stick with my prescribed estrogen cream and suppository, which have been working well. Granted, these therapies are expensive even with insurance coverage, but I don’t want to microwave my vagina!
The Atrophied Vagina Club 