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With advancing age and multiple childbirths, a woman’s intimate life faces new challenges. This includes vaginal laxity, vaginal dryness, reduced vaginal sensations and decreased libido. All of these can potentially affect your body image and self-esteem negatively. Fortunately, with advances in medical science, many effective techniques are now available to counter these issues.

Women can now choose from a range of vaginal rejuvenation procedures to regain sensitivity and enhance intimacy. Here we have shed light on some of the worthwhile techniques for vaginal tightening and other relevant aspects of such treatments that are frequently asked about.

What are different vaginal tightening techniques?

Broadly speaking, vaginal tightening procedures can be divided into three categories:

Natural methods

By far, the most effective natural method to counter vaginal laxity is Kegels pelvic floor exercises. You start by contracting the muscles used to stop urination, holding for a few seconds, then releasing and repeating this sequence. 

The aim is to do multiple repetitions throughout the day to strengthen pelvic muscles. When done consistently, the effects are evident in 3 to 6 months. The improved vaginal tone leads to stronger orgasms, enhanced vaginal sensations and reduced stress urinary incontinence. 

Surgical vaginal tightening

Surgical vaginal tightening is performed by a cosmetic gynaecologist under general or local anaesthesia. The cosmetic surgeon determines the extent of correction and areas marked for incision. Excess mucosal tissue is removed along 60 to 70% of the vaginal length. After the desired alteration, the tissues are tightened and resutured. For optimal results, a simultaneous perineoplasty is performed to tighten the vaginal opening.

The surgery results are longer lasting compared to non-surgical techniques, with noticeable improvement in sexual function. A highly experienced vaginal tightening surgeon must be chosen for this delicate and sensitive procedure, as inexperienced hands can do more harm than good. 

Non-surgical vaginal tightening “from scalpels to wands”

Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation is painless and done on an outpatient basis with no downtime requirement. For optimal outcome, you may need multiple sessions at varying intervals as recommended by your doctor.

Laser vaginal tightening (Femilift)

This technique uses CO2 laser energy for vaginal rejuvenation. A laser emitting probe is inserted gently into the vagina to deliver thermal energy and fractioned light to the vaginal mucosa. This boosts collagen production in the tissue lining the vaginal canal. The enhanced collagen laydown leads to improved vaginal tone and sensitivity. 

Radiofrequency vaginal tightening (ThermiVa®)

This procedure involves a radio frequency emitting sterile and disposable probe to administer therapeutic heat to the vagina. Patients may note mild heating sensations similar to a warm massage. The vaginal mucosa reacts by producing collagen, which results in vaginal tightening.

What are the benefits of a tight vagina?

While your primary concern may be a lack of vaginal sensitivity, the good news is that many more associated problems see an improvement after treatment. The benefits of vaginal tightening are numerous including:

• Increase in sexual sensations
• Improvement in vaginal lubrication
• Alleviation of painful sex
• Help with urinary incontinence
• Boosting of self-esteem

Who are suitable candidates for vaginal tightening surgery?

Any woman experiencing bothersome vaginal laxity and reduced sensations in a good state of physical and mental health can go under the knife for vaginal tightening. You are an ideal fit if you have:

• Reduced vaginal tone
• Given multiple vaginal births
• Perineal and vaginal scarring
• Urinary incontinence issues
• Prolapsed vaginal mucosa
• Realistic expectations from the procedure

What are the associated treatment risks?

As with all medical procedures, vaginal tightening procedures have certain risks associated with them. 

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Altered sensations at the procedure site
• Overdone or underdone procedure
• Injury to surrounding structures like the bladder and rectum.

The complications are rare, particularly in the hands of experienced providers.

How much is it to tighten your vagina?

The exact amount for vaginal tightening near you depends upon your geographical location, the extent and type of treatment and the expertise of your provider. The cost of laser vaginal tightening is lower as compared to surgical vaginal tightening. In New York City, for example, the average cost range varies between 3000 USD to 10000 USD for different techniques.

Conclusion

Vaginal tightening can be achieved by many techniques. Which one suits you the best depends upon your individual requirements and should be decided after a thorough consultation with your aesthetic gynaecologist. Be open about the issues you are facing and your expectations from the treatment. A carefully chosen procedure executed by expert hands can have rewarding outcomes for your intimate life.

About the Author

Dr. Jehan Ara is a highly qualified consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist with a passion for writing and health education. She has more than 10 years of practical patient care experience. She is currently working as an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in a medical school and a clinical supervisor for postgraduate residents of obstetrics and gynaecology in the affiliated teaching hospital. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Jehan is also a passionate writer and educator. She regularly writes articles and blog posts on women's health. She is committed to helping women understand their bodies and make informed decisions about their health.