Vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening surgery is a series of procedures that can help change the appearance of your vagina. Read on to find out if this is necessary
Does your vagina even need rejuvenation? This is a question that can cause a lot of debate. Vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening is a set of surgical as well as non-surgical procedures that can help tighten the vaginal muscles. It is believed that these procedures can help your vagina look more symmetrical as well as help with sexual pleasure. But are vaginal resuscitation or vaginal tightening treatments necessary? Do you need a vaginal “tightening” or are these treatments purely cosmetic? Under what circumstances should you resort to such procedures? Let’s try to answer these questions and tell you more about vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening.
What is vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening?
Vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening surgery refers to a set of surgical and non-surgical procedures aimed at tightening the vaginal muscles and mucosa, improving the appearance of the vaginal area and usually improving sexual satisfaction, explains gynecologist and obstetrician Dr Chaitali Trivedi. These procedures are often sought by women experiencing vaginal relaxation due to childbirth, aging, or other factors.
A study published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicinealso suggests that vaginal resuscitation or vaginal tightening surgery is also used for mild pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and urinary incontinence. However, she adds that laser vaginal tightening procedures, a non-surgical method of vaginal rejuvenation, lack scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness. In fact, there are other, less invasive ways to make your vagina tighter.
When is vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening surgery required?
Here are some of the common reasons why people go for vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening surgeries:
1. Childbirth
Childbirth can often change many things for a woman, her vagina being one of them. Vaginal prolapse can occur after vaginal delivery due to stretching and tearing of the vaginal tissues, reports the American Society of Plastic Surgeonsadding that the muscles of the vagina may relax so much that a tampon may even fall out.
2. Menopause
Menopause can be another reason to change the vagina. “As women age, the collagen and elastin in the vaginal tissues can degrade, leading to laxity,” explains Dr. Trivedi. A study, published in GLASSreports that genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) affects up to 84% of menopausal women. Symptoms of GSM include vaginal dryness, burning, lack of lubrication and discomfort during sex. While some women use vaginal moisturizers, others require extensive treatment, which is extremely expensive. Therefore, vaginal laser therapy is often recommended, the study argues.
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3. Urinary incontinence
Menopausal genitourinary syndrome (GSM) can also affect urinary symptoms such as urgency, dysuria and recurrent urinary tract infections, reports this study, published in Journal of Menopausal Medicine. In some cases, these procedures can help relieve the symptoms of urinary incontinence.
However, some women also seek these procedures to enhance sexual pleasure by increasing friction during intercourse. “For personal or cosmetic reasons, some women choose these procedures to improve the appearance of their vaginal area,” says Dr. Trivedi.
What are the different types of vaginal resurfacing/tightening surgery?
Both surgical and non-surgical methods are available:
Surgical methods:
- Colpoplasty: A surgical procedure that tightens the vaginal muscles and surrounding tissues.
- Lipoplasty: A procedure to reshape or reduce the size of labia minora or labia majora.
Non-Surgical Methods
- Laser treatment: It uses focused laser energy to stimulate collagen production and tighten vaginal tissues.
- Radio Frequency (RF) Therapy: It uses radio frequency energy to achieve similar results to laser therapy by heating the vaginal tissues to stimulate collagen production.
- Injectable fillers: Hyaluronic acid or other fillers are injected into the walls of the vagina to enhance tightness and lubrication.
When is vaginal resuscitation or vaginal tightening surgery done but not required?
This happens when a woman wishes to change the appearance of her vagina for purely aesthetic reasons, without functional problems. “Some women may feel pressured by social or cultural norms to undergo these procedures,” says Dr. Trivedi. Some women may believe that these procedures will enhance their sexual experiences, even though they have no medical or physical need.
Does vaginal resuscitation or vaginal tightening help?
Can vaginal tightening lead to better sex? Yes, it can. Increased friction during intercourse can enhance sexual pleasure for some women and their partners. A study published in Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Researchclaimed that participants’ sexual function improved six months after vaginal tightening. Some women experience a boost in confidence and self-esteem after these procedures. The appearance of the vaginal area can be improved by addressing any personal concerns.
What are the risks associated with vaginal resurfacing/tightening surgery?
As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection, explains Dr Trivedi. Surgical procedures can result in scarring, which can affect appearance and function. Pain and discomfort after the procedure are common. “There is a risk of altered or reduced sensation in the sinus area. Bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia and other complications can occur,” he adds.
How is vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening performed?
They are usually done under anesthesia. The surgeon makes incisions to tighten the vaginal muscles and remove excess tissue. The process usually takes a few hours and recovery can take several weeks. “Outpatient treatments include the application of laser or radiofrequency energy or injectable fillers. Sessions are usually shorter and recovery time is minimal compared to surgical options. But multiple sessions are needed to get adequate results,” says Dr Trivedi.
Can you prevent vaginal prolapse?
Regular Kegel exercises can help maintain vaginal muscle strength and tone. “Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and getting regular physical activity can support overall vaginal health. Avoiding activities that strain the pelvic floor, such as lifting weights, can prevent laxity,” explains Dr. Trivedi. Proper postpartum care and physical therapy can help regain and maintain vaginal muscle tone.
