The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a novel laser treatment for vaginal relaxation syndrome.
Method: A pilot study was conducted on 21 patients who received the novel laser treatment (IntimaLase) for vaginal tightening with a 2940 nm Er:YAG laser between June 2011 and January 2012. All patients received two treatment sessions with an interval between sessions of 15 to 30 days. In a non-ablative, thermal-only mode, laser energies of approx. 90 J per treated area in the vaginal canal and of approx. 10 J per treated area at the vestibule and introitus were delivered to the patient's vaginal mucosa. A special Laser Vaginal Tightening (LVT) questionnaire was designed for assessing the improvement of vaginal tightness via patient self evaluation and by their sexual partner's assessment. POP-Q measurements were also performed prior to both treatment sessions in an attempt to objectively assess the change in vaginal tissue structure. Additionally, a PISQ-12 questionnaire was also used as a standard assessment tool for pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and sexual gratification. Patients were also asked about treatment discomfort, potential adverse effects, and their general satisfaction with the treatment.
Results: Twenty of twenty one patients (95%) reported significant (moderate and strong) improvement of their vaginal tightness, and also all of their partners confirmed an improvement of vaginal tightness during sexual intercourse (85% reported significant improvement and 15% reported mild improvement). All patients but one (95%) reported better sex after the treatment. Five patients had prolapses (of stages 1-3) before receiving the treatment, which improved in all of these patients, leaving just two of them with prolapses (one with stage 1 and one with stage 2). Three patients suffering from SUI before the treatment reported significant improvement (2) and complete healing (1). There were no adverse effects and patient discomfort was assessed as minimal.
Conclusions: The novel laser vaginal tightening therapy (IntimaLase) is an effective and safe method for the treatment of vaginal relaxation syndrome.
