MonaLisa Touch® CO2 Laser

Vaginal rejuvenation is a treatment many women consider as they experience changes down below. Due to ageing, childbirth, hormonal changes and the menopause, the vaginal structure can change, which may cause uncomfortable or painful symptoms. Vaginal atrophy refers to thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls that may occur when your body has less oestrogen. This can cause a number of symptoms including vaginal dryness, vaginal burning, genital or vaginal itching, burning with urination, pain during intercourse, urinary incontinence, decreased vaginal lubrication during sexual activity and concerns with vaginal laxity. These symptoms are common and can affect comfort and everyday life. If you notice them, it’s worth speaking to your GP or a doctor about the options available. Vaginal atrophy is caused by a decrease in oestrogen production in the body. This is where vaginal tissues become drier, less elastic and thinner. There are a number of things that affect your oestrogen levels. These include the menopause and lead up to the menopause, breastfeeding, taking certain medication and as a side effect after certain cancer treatments. We see an increased number of women over the age of 50 for vaginal rejuvenation treatment with our resident doctor. At our Leamington Spa clinic, we’re often asked about the concerns below. Pain during sexual intercourse (Dyspareunia) Painful sex can have several causes, so it should be assessed by a doctor. For some women whose discomfort is linked to menopause-related dryness, CO2 laser treatment may be discussed as one option. The evidence is limited and results vary. Urinary incontinence Urinary incontinence (bladder leakage) is common and can be linked to pregnancy, childbirth, ageing and the menopause. If you have bladder leakage, please see your GP first. Pelvic floor physiotherapy and other NHS treatments are usually recommended. MonaLisa Touch® is a non-surgical CO2 laser treatment for the vaginal lining. Whether it is suitable for you is assessed by our doctor at consultation. The treatment is carried out by our experienced doctor who put you at ease from the consultation. As with any laser procedure, there are risks. These include discomfort, burning, swelling and discharge. You should allow up to a week to recover. Your doctor will explain the risks at your consultation. Most patients find it bearable, though some discomfort is common. The laser is designed to encourage the production of collagen and fibroblasts. Research into this treatment is ongoing and the quality of evidence varies. Women will first attend a medical consultation with our doctor where you will undergo an assessment and we will take a full medical history. During your consultation, you can get to know our doctor and ask any questions. Our doctor will suggest a treatment plan, including how many sessions may be appropriate. A course is usually three sessions, 4 to 6 weeks apart. Results vary and not everyone sees an improvement. During treatment, a small metal probe will be inserted carefully into the vagina. This will deliver laser energy to the vaginal area and vaginal mucosa to stimulate the production of collagen, fibroblast and elastin. The laser energy is designed to stimulate a healing response in the vaginal lining. Some women report less dryness afterwards, but results vary. Bleeding is uncommon and the treatment is usually done without anaesthetic. It doesn’t work for everyone, and your doctor will give you a realistic view of what to expect at consultation. After a course, some women notice less dryness or discomfort. Results vary and maintenance sessions may be needed. Common side effects include soreness, redness, burning, swelling, itching and temporary discharge, usually settling within about a week. Less common risks will be explained at consultation. MonaLisa Touch® is made by DEKA, a medical laser manufacturer. It uses a probe designed specifically to treat the vaginal lining.