What Does “Vaginal Rejuvenation” Mean?

“Vaginal rejuvenation” is not one standardized medical procedure. The phrase may refer to vaginoplasty, perineoplasty, labiaplasty, clitoral-hood reduction, labia-major augmentation, or energy-based laser or radiofrequency treatment.

These procedures affect different anatomy and should not be grouped together as though they produce the same outcome.

Cosmetic appearance and medical symptoms are different

Aesthetic concerns about the labia or surrounding tissue should be distinguished from pain, irritation, pelvic-floor symptoms, urinary concerns, prolapse, menopause-related symptoms, sexual pain, infection, or another medical condition. Symptoms may require evaluation by an obstetrician-gynecologist, urogynecologist, pelvic-floor specialist, dermatologist, or another clinician before cosmetic treatment.

Normal genital anatomy varies widely. Advertising should not label natural variation as defective.

Evidence is limited

ACOG states that high-quality evidence supporting the effectiveness of elective female genital cosmetic surgery is limited and that patients should be counseled about uncertainty and complications.

Risks can include pain, bleeding, infection, scarring, adhesions, altered sensation, painful intercourse, dissatisfaction, and reoperation.

Energy-based treatments require special caution

ACOG reports that the FDA has not approved laser or other energy-based treatments for vaginal cosmetic surgery or for menopause symptoms, urinary incontinence, or sexual problems. FDA warnings cited risks including burns, scarring, pain during sex, and persistent pain.

A device’s clearance for another use should not be presented as approval for “vaginal rejuvenation.”

Consultation should be specific

Patients should receive the exact medical name of the proposed procedure, the anatomy treated, approved or cleared use, available evidence, alternatives, recovery, and risks.

Learn more about vaginal rejuvenation procedures in Newport Beach and consultation at the Newport Beach office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is “vaginal rejuvenation” one medical procedure?

No. It is a marketing term used for several surgical and nonsurgical treatments that affect different anatomy and have different evidence and risks.

Are energy-based devices FDA-approved for vaginal rejuvenation?

ACOG states that the FDA has not approved laser or other energy-based treatment for vaginal cosmetic surgery or for menopause symptoms, urinary incontinence, or sexual problems.

Does normal genital anatomy have one ideal appearance?

No. Genital anatomy varies widely. A consultation should not pathologize normal variation or pressure a patient toward treatment.