Update On Laser Vaginal Therapy Treatments

By Anne Littman, PA-C, MSHS

Finally, there is a minimal downtime treatment to address female sexual health changes that occur with age. Laser vaginal therapies are a growing option for women to address sexual satisfaction, enhanced vaginal lubrication, sexual comfort, vaginal scar tissue, and even some urinary leakage.

Recently, the FDA did a thorough investigation regarding vaginal therapy treatments, which you may have read about in the news. This press coverage may have led to confusion about the procedures and limited patient’s access to new, innovative therapy.

As of November 20^th, 2018, the FDA announced that Sciton, the manufacturer of the revolutionary diVa vaginal therapy procedure, had satisfactorily met all the FDA’s concerns and affirmed the FDA-clearance for coagulation and ablation of soft tissue, including gynecologic and mucosal tissue.

Most post-menopausal women experience symptoms that fall under genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) associated with decreased estrogen as well as other hormones. These symptoms include vaginal dryness, itching, irritation, discharge, and painful sex.

Unlike well known hot flashes, vaginal atrophy often worsens with time if not treated. For those that seek medical help for vaginal symptoms, standard gynecologic treatments often inadequately treat these GSM symptoms. This is especially true for breast cancer patients who are often unable or unwilling to use estrogen, and effective treatment options were historically limited.

While vaginal laser therapy for GSM is not covered by insurance, it can provide assistance to a difficult-to-treat problem in a large majority of the population. diVa by Sciton, has a 98% Real Self satisfaction rating, is about a 3-5 minute procedure that is quite comfortable, with minimal downtime. A careful exam and consultation should be sought out with a skilled, board certified physician or provider to ensure you fully understand this treatment and your options and candidacy.

Laser vaginal therapy has been proven to cross both the aesthetic and gynecologic spectrum, and has proven to those who provide and receive this treatment to be an incredibly rewarding procedure for a population in great need of better treatments for sexual health concerns.