Vaginal dryness often stems from a decline in estrogen levels, a common occurrence during menopause. Estrogen plays a crucial role in keeping vaginal tissues healthy, lubricated, and elastic. So, when estrogen levels drop, this can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulties with sexual intercourse.
Many women feel embarrassed or resigned to living with vaginal dryness. But it is important to understand that vaginal dryness is a treatable condition, and seeking help can significantly improve your symptoms.
Effects of vaginal dryness
Vaginal dryness is far more common than most of us realize. Signs and symptoms may include:
- Vaginal burning
- Vaginal irritation
- Pain during sex and/or problems during intimacy
- More frequent vaginal or urinary tract infections
Additionally, the impacts of vaginal dryness extend beyond physical discomfort, affecting a woman’s quality of life and intimate relationships. It can lead to decreased sexual desire, difficulty achieving orgasm, and even strain on interpersonal connections.
When to speak to your doctor
If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, be sure to make an appointment with one of our Bloom Ob/Gyn providers. Based on your medical history and symptoms, we can help diagnose the underlying cause and suggest possible management options. One of these may include…
MonaLisa Touch
How it Works
MonaLisa Touch is a noninvasive vaginal laser therapy that stimulates collagen production and restores vaginal tissue or mucosa to a more youthful state. By restoring moisture, elasticity, and blood flow to the vaginal area, this novel therapy helps alleviate vaginal dryness. As one of the first healthcare facilities to offer MonaLisa Touch in the Washington DC area, Bloom Ob/Gyn is recognized as a leader in this non-surgical, hormone-free solution that addresses physical symptoms and enhances overall well-being and sexual health.
The Procedure
The MonaLisa Touch procedure itself is quick, safe, and relatively painless. It can be done in the office and typically takes less than 20 minutes. Most women report feeling only a mild warming sensation during the procedure, with minimal discomfort or downtime afterward. Additionally, most women can resume their normal activities immediately following the therapy.
Benefits of MonaLisa Touch
The MonaLisa Touch therapy hosts a variety of benefits. These include:
- MonaLisa Touch therapy provides effective relief from vaginal dryness, restoring moisture and lubrication to vaginal tissues.
- Non-Invasive – Unlike surgical procedures or hormonal treatments, MonaLisa Touch therapy is non-invasive, meaning there are no incisions, needles, or medications involved. This makes it a safe and low-risk option for most women.
- Long-Lasting results – Many women experience long-lasting results from MonaLisa Touch therapy, with improvements lasting up to a year or more. Some may require periodic maintenance treatments to sustain the benefits over time.
- Improved sexual health – By addressing vaginal dryness and discomfort, MonaLisa Touch therapy can improve sexual health.
Side Effects
In general, side effects from the procedure are mild and do not last longer than 36 hours. The most common side effects are irritation at the vaginal opening, light bleeding, pink or brown vaginal discharge, itching or burning sensation when passing urine and swelling or redness at the vaginal opening.
Women are usually advised to refrain from intercourse for about 2-3 days to let the tissues completely heal.
Alternatives to MonaLisa Touch
Alternative treatments for vaginal dryness include estrogen-based therapies and over-the-counter creams or lubricants. MonaLisa Touch is ideal for women who either can’t or prefer not to use estrogen therapy.
Where to get more information
To learn more about MonaLisa Touch and determine if this is the right procedure for you, make an appointment to speak with one of our Bloom Ob/Gyn providers. They will highlight the risks, benefits and possible alternatives as they relate to your specific case.
Visit Bloom OB/GYN’s website at https://bloom-obgyn.com/services/monalisa-touch-vaginal-dryness/ to learn more about this revolutionary treatment and to schedule a consultation. Let us help you embark on a journey to renewed confidence.
