November 14, 2024 Author : Ana Filipa Brás From the age of 30, skin and body mucosa of women begin losing collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin. In the intimate region the consequence for external genitalia is a more flaccid and darkened appearance. Internally, those changes lead to laxity in the vaginal wall, with a consequent decrease in sexual pleasure. Although these changes are a natural consequence of the aging process, this does not mean women has to simply accept it . The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, such as the MonaLisa Touch, is a revolutionary technology, with known efficacy for treating vaginal changes resulting from aging, menopause, postpartum and other conditions that affect female intimate health, providing numerous safe and effective benefits. The laser is applied through a specific probe that is inserted into the vagina. This probe emits fractional CO2 laser pulses that penetrate the superficial and deep layers of vaginal tissue, promoting the activation of atrophic cells and stimulating collagen production . This treatment is an excellent alternative for women looking to improve their vulvar and vaginal health without resorting to invasive interventions or hormonal treatments . Indications for CO2 laser treatment The intimate CO2 laser promotes tissue rejuvenation by stimulating collagen fibers and vascularization in the treated area. It can be indicated for the resolution of all symptoms and health conditions that result from decreased estrogen production and the loss of elastic fibers at any stage of life, for example: Vaginal dryness; Lack of lubrication during sexual intercourse; Dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse); Genito-urinary syndrome; Vaginal laxity; Stress urinary incontinence (mild); Recurrent urinary infections; Recurrent candidiasis; Chronic genital fissures; Vulvar darkening; Vulvar laxity; Postpartum scar; Recovery of the pelvic floor after childbirth; Recovery of the pelvic floor and genital laxity after bariatric surgery (obesity surgery); Women with a personal health history that contraindicates the use of hormonal treatments; Women with a history of breast cancer or endometrial cancer; Treatments after chemotherapy or radiotherapy; Lichen sclerosus; Women with asymmetry or hypertrophy of the labia minora (labioplasty); Excision of vulvar lesions (condylomas, Bartholin gland cysts). What to expect from CO2 laser treatment? After each session, a tissue regeneration process is triggered, lasting several weeks. Many women notice significant improvements from the first session, with the first signs of clinical improvement noticed after around 15 days. The vaginal mucosa becomes firmer and more hydrated and the epithelium thicker, toned and elastic . Furthermore, the first application already works to restore an adequate vaginal pH . Thus, the natural protective barrier begins to regenerate, reducing the risk of developing infections. Sexual function also improves in the first few days , as tissue improvement brings more comfort, vascularity and pleasure during intercourse. In turn, urinary incontinence gradually improves as regeneration progresses. How long does it take for CO2 laser treatment Most women who have indication for CO2 laser treatment need 3 to 4 treatment sessions . Sessions last approximately 15-20 minutes and are performed at intervals of 30 to 45 days until the treatment plan is complete. During sessions, a slight warming or tingling sensation may be felt, but most women tolerate them very well, finding the treatment comfortable and painless . The good news is that the effects of the treatment are long-lasting. After the first treatment plan, in most cases, maintaining the effects of the laser only requires one annual treatment, which is generally limited to a single session. Recovery from CO2 laser treatment Recovery after CO2 laser treatment is quick and generally uneventful. Most women can resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure . However, it is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse and tampons for a week after each session , to allow complete recovery of the treated tissues. Some women may experience slight swelling, redness or tenderness in the treated area, but these symptoms are temporary and disappear within a few days. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions to ensure the best results and a recovery without complications. Contraindications Like any medical treatment, the fractional CO2 laser also has contraindications. These include, for example: Pregnancy; Active genital infections (eg genital herpes); Injuries or open wounds in the region to be treated. It is essential to carry out a complete medical evaluation before starting treatment to ensure the anticipated safety and effectiveness . Meet the obstetrics-gynecology clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
