What Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome [VRS]?
Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome is a medical condition in which the vaginal tissues lose their tone and elasticity due to a variety of factors like childbirth, hormone changes, and age. In VRS, the inner diameter of the vaginal walls stretches and softens, leading to reduced sexual satisfaction, reduced vaginal tightness, urinary incontinence, and even vaginal bulging.
Causes of Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome
Although VRS is caused by a variety of factors, the primary reasons include the following:
- Childbirth: VRS commonly results from vaginal delivery, particularly in cases of multiple or prolonged births. As childbirth stretches and puts pressure on the vaginal tissues, it leads to weakened vaginal muscles and reduced tone.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, primarily a drop in estrogen levels during menopause, reduces the vaginal elasticity and lead to thinning of the vaginal tissues, contributing to VRS.
- Aging: As women age, the body undergoes natural changes, including decreased collagen production. Collagen is an essential protein that is responsible for maintaining the strength and elasticity of tissues.
- Genetics: Some individuals inherit a genetic vulnerability to weaker connective tissues, including around the vaginal area. Such genetic factor increases the chances of developing VRS.
- Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle factors, such as smoking, obesity, and chronic constipation, exert intra-abdominal pressure. This pressure strains the pelvic floor muscles and vaginal tissues, potentially causing vaginal relaxation over time.
Symptoms of Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome
VRS can manifest in many symptoms that impact the overall health and well-being of vaginal health. Some of the symptoms of VRS are:
- Loss of Vaginal Tightness: One of the primary symptoms of VRS is a loss of vaginal tone and tightness. Since the inner diameter of the vaginal walls expands, it may feel looser than before, thus leading to decreased vaginal grip during sexual intercourse.
- Reduced Sexual Satisfaction: As the vaginal walls diminish and reduce friction during sex, it can contribute to lowered sexual pleasure and orgasm during intercourse.
- Urinary Incontinence: Vaginal relaxation can weaken the muscles supporting the bladder and urethra, leading to urinary incontinence. This may be seen as involuntary urine leakage during activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising.
- Vaginal Bulging or Protrusion: In more severe cases of VRS, weakened vaginal tissues results in a feeling of vaginal bulging or protrusion. This can occur when the pelvic organs, such as the bladder or uterus, descend into the vaginal canal.
- Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort: VRS can contribute to vaginal dryness, irritation, and discomfort. The loss of natural lubrication and changes in vaginal tissue can cause dryness, itching, and a sensation of discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse or everyday activities.
Treatment for Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome
Vaginal Radiofrequency
Vaginal radiofrequency, vaginal rejuvenation, or vaginal tightening, is revolutionary for treating vaginal relaxation syndrome. The vaginal radiofrequency treatment utilizes technical devices that release radio frequency energy. This energy is directed to the vaginal tissues, which stimulates collagen production and causes controlled heating.
Who are the Best Candidates for Vaginal Radiofrequency?
Patients who benefit the most from energy-based procedures are those who have symptoms of the following:
- Mild-to-Moderate SUI
- Overactive Bladder
- Vaginal Dryness
- Decreased Lubrication
- Orgasmic Dysfunction
- Grade-1 Prolapse
- Vaginal Laxity
The indications for this treatment are ever-increasing, but more studies are required to evaluate the true breadth of the efficacy of energy-based devices.
Procedure & Recovery Period
Typically, the procedure is carried out by a professional like a gynecologist in an outpatient setting. They also usually conduct a thorough interview regarding the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination to ensure the patient is suitable for the treatment.
During the treatment, the doctor inserts a small probe or an applicator into the vagina to deliver radiofrequency energy into the affected areas. In most cases, the treatment does not require any anesthesia as it is well-tolerated; however, some topical anesthetic may be applied to reduce potential discomfort.
Vaginal radiofrequency treatment sessions are usually short, lasting around 15-30 minutes. The number of sessions is highly dependent on the individual and the intensity of VRS. Typically, most patients undergo three to four sessions spaced several weeks apart to achieve the best results.
There is no downtime required after a VRS treatment. Usually, the patient can resume back to their daily activities soon after the procedure. In some cases, patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, or changes in vaginal discharge, but it typically resolves within a few days.
Benefits of Vaginal Radiofrequency Treatment
Vaginal radiofrequency treatment offers several benefits for patients. Although individual results may vary, here are some of the common benefits associated with the procedure.
- Improves Vaginal Tightness: Vaginal radiofrequency treatment stimulates collagen production in the vaginal tissues, thus actively restoring and enhancing vaginal tightness. It results in a firmer and more toned vaginal canal.
- Enhances Sexual Satisfaction: By improving vaginal tightness, the treatment successfully increases sensation and friction during sexual intercourse. This leads to enhanced sexual pleasure, improved orgasm intensity, and a better sexual experience.
- Increases Lubrication: Vaginal radiofrequency treatment stimulates the natural lubrication mechanisms of the vaginal tissues. This means it addresses the issues of vaginal dryness and discomfort, making sexual activity more comfortable and pleasurable.
- Eases Urinary Incontinence: Vaginal relaxation can successfully relieve urinary incontinence, particularly stress urinary incontinence, which involves active urine leakage during activities such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising. The radiofrequency treatment strengthens the vaginal muscles and supportive tissues, reducing the likelihood of urinary incontinence episodes.
- Non-Surgical and Minimally Invasive: Vaginal radiofrequency treatment is an active non-surgical procedure that does not require incisions or anesthesia. Healthcare professionals perform it in an outpatient setting, allowing for a convenient and relatively quick treatment experience. There is active minimal downtime associated with the procedure, and most individuals can easily resume their daily activities immediately afterward.
Risks of Vaginal Radiofrequency Treatment
As with any medical procedure, vaginal radiofrequency treatment comes with potential risks. Therefore, it’s imperative to know its side effects before undergoing the procedure. Some of the risks factors of vaginal radiofrequency treatment are:
- Discomfort: It is common for some individuals to experience temporary discomfort, sensitivity, or slight pain during or after the procedure. These sensations usually subside within a few days.
- Risk of Swelling and Redness: After a vaginal radiofrequency treatment, it is also possible to experience temporary swelling and redness in the treated area. However, this is a common side effect and typically resolves on its own.
- Temporary Changes in Vaginal Discharge: After the treatment, some individuals experience changes in discharge, such as increased or altered discharge. This is a short-term side effect and should resolve within a few days.
- Infection: Although rare, there is a possibility of infection anytime a procedure introduces instruments or probes into the vaginal canal. Proper sterilization techniques and post-treatment care should minimize this risk.
- Risk of Burns and Thermal Injury: In rare cases, there is a risk of burns or thermal injury to the vaginal tissues due to the excessive or improper usage of radiofrequency energy. Therefore, it is upon the doctor to follow established safety guidelines and protocols.
- Scarring or Adverse Tissue Reaction: While uncommon, there is a minute possibility of developing scarring or adverse tissue reactions due to the treatment. This risk can be minimized by selecting a qualified and experienced doctor to perform the procedure.
- Unsatisfactory Results: It is important to note that individual responses to vaginal radiofrequency treatment can vary. While many individuals experience positive outcomes, there is a chance that the treatment may not deliver the desired level of improvement in vaginal tightness or other symptoms that one desires.
Pessary
A pessary is a good way of supporting a prolapse. You may choose this option if you do not wish to have surgery, are thinking about having children, or have a medical condition that makes surgery more risky. Pessaries are more likely to help a uterine prolapse or an anterior wall prolapse and are less likely to help a posterior wall prolapse. The pessary is a plastic or silicone device that fits into the vagina to help support the pelvic organs and hold up the uterus. There are various types and sizes; your doctor will advise which is best for your situation. The most commonly used type is a ring pessary.
Fitting the correct pessary size is important and may take more than one attempt.
Pessaries should be changed or removed, cleaned, and reinserted regularly. This can be done by your doctor, nurse, or sometimes by yourself. Estrogen cream is sometimes used when changing the pessary, particularly if you have any soreness.
Pessaries do not usually cause any problems but may occasionally cause inflammation. If you have any unexpected bleeding, you should see your doctor.
It is possible to have sex with some types of pessary, although you and your partner may occasionally be aware of it.
Lifestyle changes
- Losing weight if you are overweight
- Managing a chronic cough if you have one; stopping smoking will help
- Avoiding constipation; talk to your doctor about ways of helping and treating constipation
- Avoiding heavy lifting; you may wish to talk to your employer if your job involves heavy lifting
- Avoiding physical activity such as trampolining or high-impact exercise.
Laser
It can relieve incontinence symptoms and rejuvenate the vaginal wall by stimulating collagen. It’s completely painless, with no downtime, and you can return to normal activities as soon as possible.
It’s fine for mild to moderate cases of prolapse and urinary incontinence.
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
In conclusion, vaginal relaxation syndrome is a fairly common medical condition that most women face. However, it’s important to know that the severity and impact of VRS varies depending on each individual. If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of VRS, it’s best to consult a local gynecologist in Dubai, Dr. Mozhgan Sayyad.
Dr. Mozhgan Sayyad is a prolific doctor with over 25 years of invaluable experience and a proud member of prestigious organizations like the European Society of Aesthetic Gynecology [ESAG], the International Society of Sexual Medicine [ISSM], and the European Society of Sexual Medicine [ESSM]. An expert in aesthetic gynecology, female sexual dysfunction, complex gynecologic surgeries, and non-surgical procedures. From most complex cases to the most common ones, like HPV and STD or menopause, she has solutions to help you. Dr. Mozhgan has wonderfully assisted thousands of women on their journey to regain their health and confidence.
There is no reason to suffer when great solutions exist. Say goodbye to your worries and book an appointment with Dr. Mozhgan today.
