Reclaim Your Feminine Wellness: Expert Tips for Managing Vaginal Laxity

Introduction 

Vaginal laxity, though prevalent (>35% self-reported cases), is an often overlooked and under-reported (>80% of cases) concern that many women may experience at some point in their lives. Individuals usually hesitate to discuss this concern with their physicians due to embarrassment. 

This blog post delves into the nuances of this common yet overlooked health issue, offering insights and expert tips to empower women on the journey to reclaim their feminine wellness.

What is Vaginal Laxity?

Vaginal laxity, often referred to as “looseness”, indicates a state where the vagina undergoes a reduction in its tightness and firmness. This condition involves a change in the structural integrity of the vaginal tissues, potentially affecting the overall sensation and function of the vaginal canal.

Symptoms of Vaginal Laxity

Vaginal laxity after childbirth can manifest with various symptoms. These symptoms differ among individuals; some may experience more severe than others. Common symptoms include:

1. Diminished Friction or Sensation During Intercourse

• Some women may experience reduced friction or sensation, negatively impacting their overall sexual experience.

2. Decreased Sexual Satisfaction

• A recent study shows that vaginal laxity can contribute to a decline in sexual satisfaction for certain individuals.

3. Perceived Widening of the Vaginal Canal

• Women with vaginal laxity may perceive a widening of the vaginal canal, affecting their sense of tightness.

4. Stress Urinary Incontinence

• Involuntary leakage of urine during activities like coughing, laughing, or sudden movements can be a symptom of vaginal laxity post-childbirth.

5. Tampon Fit Variations

• Individuals may notice changes in tampon fit or experience reduced resistance when inserting them.

6. Impact on Confidence and Self-Esteem

• Vaginal laxity can have psychological effects, leading to reduced confidence and self-esteem in affected women.

Causes of Vaginal Laxity

Recognizing the diverse causes of vaginal laxity empowers women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

1. Childbirth

• The process of childbirth, particularly through vaginal delivery, significantly impacts the tightness of the vaginal canal. The stretching and pressure experienced during labor, increasing number of deliveries (high parity), delivery of macrosomic babies, perineal tears, and instrumental vaginal deliveries can lead to gradual tissue laxity.

2. Ageing

• The natural ageing process affects the elasticity and collagen production in vaginal tissues.

3. Hormonal Changes

• Hormonal fluctuations, especially a decline in oestrogen during menopause, influence the structural integrity of vaginal tissues, resulting in reduced elasticity.

4. Genetics

• Genetic factors play a role in determining the overall structure and elasticity of connective tissues, including those in the vaginal area.

5. Chronic Straining

• Activities involving chronic straining, such as heavy lifting or specific exercises, can increase abdominal pressure, affecting the pelvic floor and vaginal muscles and contributing to laxity.

6. Obesity and Poor Lifestyle Habits

• Obesity and unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as smoking and a lack of physical activity, negatively affect overall tissue health.

Treatment Options for Vaginal Laxity

There are several methods and interventions, ranging from non-surgical to surgical, that can be considered for vaginal tightening. Take note that the effectiveness and appropriateness of each procedure varies and, in some cases, carries potential risks.

1. Non-Surgical Options

• 1. Kegel Exercises
  • Think about it as a repeated upward squeeze and release exercise
  • Identify pelvic floor muscles.
  • Squeeze upward. You may insert your fingers into your vagina to ensure that you are doing it properly.
  • Avoid tensing other muscles.
  • Hold for 3-5 seconds and release for 3-5 seconds. Do this about 10 times per session.
  • Repeat regularly for optimal results.
• 2. Vaginal Cones
  • Insert the cone into the vagina with lubricant.
  • Hold in place with pelvic floor muscles.
  • Gradually progress to heavier cones.
  • Monitor progress and adjust as needed.
• 3. Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES):
  • Requires professional supervision.
  • Involves using electrical currents to stimulate muscle contractions
  • Electrodes placed on the pelvic floor.
  • Adjust intensity, frequency, and duration.
  • Progressive treatment with intensity and duration gradually increases as your muscles adapt and become stronger.
  •  It is often combined with other therapies.
• 4.  Laser Treatments: Involves the use of Laser energy
  • Non-surgical, non-invasive.
  • Stimulates collagen production and tissue regeneration.
  • Several sessions may be needed.
  • Procedure involves laser or radiofrequency energy.

5.  Radiofrequency

This conservative, non-intrusive approach employed for tightening the vagina involves the utilization of radiofrequency energy to direct and activate the vaginal tissues. The energy emitted promotes collagen synthesis, tissue rejuvenation, enhanced blood circulation and, consequently, improves vagina tautness and its resilience after childbirth. Multiple sessions may be required for optimal outcomes. 

Votiva Vaginal Rejuvenation is an FDA-approved example of this procedure.

2. Surgical Options:

• Vaginoplasty:
  • Begins with anaesthesia administration.
  • Incisions made in the vaginal canal.
  • Removal of excess vaginal lining.
  • Precise closure of incisions with dissolvable stitches.
  • Tightening of underlying muscles through sutures.
  • Postoperative care and monitoring for a smooth recovery.
  • Other surgical procedures that can be used for vaginal laxity are perineoplasty and labiaplasty. 

Conclusion

The choices for vaginal tightening involve considering both non-surgical and surgical options. Non-surgical methods, such as Kegel exercises, vaginal cones, and Votiva vaginal rejuvenation, provide non-invasive approaches, while surgical options like vaginoplasty are also good alternatives.

Understanding these options and seeking professional guidance ensures a well-informed decision-making process.

Image by Roberto Nickson from Unsplash

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