Laser Treatment for Genital Area Issues

What Is the Role of Laser in Treating Genital Area Problems?

As a Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, I have observed throughout my career that the physical problems women face are not only physiological but also have psychological and social dimensions. A woman’s sense of well-being is the first step to healing. If this cannot be achieved, treatment tends to be prolonged and, unfortunately, less effective.

In pursuit of more effective treatments in a shorter time, we have been utilizing laser applications in recent years, thanks to technological advancements in women’s health. These applications serve both medical purposes and aesthetic concerns.

To briefly define laser use in women’s health: it is a non-surgical, safe, and fast-recovery method for treating functional or aesthetic issues in the vaginal area. It offers highly satisfying results for both patients and physicians.

How and Why Is Laser Used in the Genital Area?

Laser treatments for the genital area are performed with specially designed medical laser devices. These lasers trigger tissue regeneration, collagen production, and muscular tightening. Commonly used technologies include fractional CO₂ lasers and erbium lasers. While these devices may vary in the energy type they use, their working principles are essentially the same. They create microscopic thermal channels in the tissue without causing damage, initiating a healing process.

Laser applications are generally painless or cause minimal discomfort and typically do not require anesthesia. The procedure usually takes between 15 to 30 minutes.

In What Cases Is Laser Applied to the Genital Area?

Laser applications in the genital area can be used for both therapeutic and cosmetic purposes. The most common indications include:

1. Vaginal Tightening (Vaginal Rejuvenation):
   Relaxation and loss of elasticity in the vaginal tissue may occur due to childbirth, aging, and hormonal changes. This can negatively impact sexual satisfaction and lead to issues such as urinary incontinence. A lack of vaginal tightness may impair sensation and orgasm, potentially becoming a concern for the male partner and contributing to marital dissatisfaction. Laser therapy stimulates tissue regeneration in the vaginal canal, encourages estrogen release, and increases collagen production, resulting in firming and rejuvenation.
2. Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI):
   In cases of mild to moderate urinary incontinence—especially those triggered by increased intra-abdominal pressure from coughing, sneezing, or laughing—applying laser treatment to the anterior vaginal wall (near the urethra) is a highly effective alternative. It leads to tightening of the pelvic floor muscles and supportive tissues, elevating the anterior vaginal wall and urethra, which reduces symptoms.
3. Vaginal Dryness and Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia):
   Due to hormonal changes following menopause or childbirth, the vaginal lining may thin, lose moisture, and become dry. This can make intercourse painful. Laser therapy helps thicken and moisturize the vaginal mucosa, reducing dryness and discomfort.
4. Genital Aesthetic Procedures:
   Lasers can also be used to lighten the skin tone of the labia, rejuvenate tissue, and achieve symmetry in the small labia. It can serve as a complementary treatment after labiaplasty to accelerate healing.
5. Vaginal Whitening:
   Hormonal changes, childbirth, or genetic factors can lead to hyperpigmentation in the external genital area. Laser therapy can reduce dark pigmentation and provide a more uniform appearance.

What Is the Application Process Like?

Genital laser treatments are generally outpatient procedures. They require no special preparation beforehand, and patients can usually resume their daily activities immediately afterward.

Steps of the procedure include:

• The patient is placed on a gynecological examination table.
• The vaginal area is cleansed with an antiseptic solution.
• A laser probe is inserted into the vagina.
• Controlled laser energy is applied to each region.
• The session lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Typically, 2 to 3 sessions are recommended at intervals of 2 to 3 weeks, although some cases may benefit from a single session. Results usually become noticeable within a few weeks.

Post-Treatment Considerations

Generally, no pain or significant side effects are experienced after the procedure. However, some patients may notice mild sensitivity, watery discharge, or temporary burning sensations, which usually subside within a few days.

Post-procedure recommendations:

• Avoid sexual intercourse for 3 to 5 days.
• Refrain from swimming pools and communal water sources.
• Apply the creams prescribed by Dr. Kadir Şahin regularly.

Who Is Not Suitable for This Treatment?

As with any medical procedure, there are contraindications to genital laser treatments:

• Those with active genital infections
• Pregnant individuals
• Patients experiencing unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Individuals with a history of major genital surgery

A thorough pre-treatment evaluation is essential before proceeding with the procedure in such cases.

In Summary

Genital laser applications provide a non-surgical, comfortable, and effective method that combines functional and aesthetic improvements in women’s health. Especially for women who have given birth, are postmenopausal, or are experiencing a decline in sexual satisfaction, this treatment offers promising results.

When asked what Dr. Kadir Şahin prioritizes most, the answer is clear: creating personalized treatment plans tailored to each woman’s needs and managing concerns effectively while maintaining strict patient privacy. Genital laser treatments play an important role in this approach.

Using these modern medical technologies consciously and ethically is our collective responsibility to help women live in harmony with their bodies, confidently and healthily.

Op. Dr. Kadir Şahin
Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist