Many women express concerns about changes in their bodies, often asking, “Things feel different down there. Could this be why sex doesn’t feel the same?” It’s important to address the full range of women’s health issues, including concerns related to sexual function. Open conversations about intimate topics can be challenging, but addressing them is crucial for overall well-being.Vaginal Laxity Syndrome (VLS)
According to an abstract published by the International Continence Society, nearly 48% of women report concerns about vaginal looseness. This condition, medically known as Vaginal Laxity Syndrome (VLS), is common and can significantly impact quality of life.
Causes and Symptoms of Vaginal Laxity Syndrome
VLS is often the result of childbirth, particularly vaginal births, but it can also occur as women age due to a natural decrease in collagen. Additionally, about 50 to 75% of women experience significant vaginal laxity after menopause as estrogen levels drop, leading to a loss of muscle tone in the vaginal area.
Symptoms of VLS may include:
- Decreased sensation during intercourse
- Difficulty holding urine
- Decreased firmness of the vaginal walls (a self-assessment can be done by seeing if you can insert three or more fingers into your vagina without significant resistance).
These symptoms can also lead to difficulty achieving orgasm and reduced sexual satisfaction. Many women feel embarrassed or uncomfortable discussing these issues with their partners, but it is important to seek help and understand the available solutions.
Treatment Options for Vaginal Laxity Syndrome
There are both non-surgical and surgical options for treating VLS. A healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a healthy weight and performing pelvic floor exercises like Kegels, can help improve symptoms. Treating vaginal dryness, especially in postmenopausal women, is another crucial step.
For those seeking more advanced treatments, surgical procedures are available to restore the strength and elasticity of the vaginal tissues. Procedures like vaginoplasty, perineoplasty, and labiaplasty can help address VLS and are best performed by specialists with expertise in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS). Research, such as a 2010 study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, has shown that combining multiple genital cosmetic surgeries can improve the success rate of treatment.
ThermiVa: A Non-Surgical Alternative
For women looking for a less invasive option, ThermiVa is an effective treatment for VLS. This procedure uses radiofrequency thermal energy to promote collagen remodeling, which strengthens the vaginal tissues and improves sensitivity. ThermiVa can also help with vaginal dryness and urinary incontinence. The procedure is painless, takes about 20 minutes, and produces immediate results.
Knowing that there are multiple treatment options empowers women to make informed decisions about their health. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help tailor the best treatment plan to meet individual needs while minimizing potential side effects or long-term complications.
If you’re interested in learning more about VLS treatments or exploring the ThermiVa procedure, reach out to a healthcare provider for guidance and support.
