Top Class Actions’s website and social media posts use affiliate links. If you make a purchase using such links, we may receive a commission, but it will not result in any additional charges to you. Please review our Affiliate Link Disclosure for more information.
Vaginal Rejuvenation Overview
Vaginal rejuvenation is the use of energy-based devices meant for the nonsurgical treatment of cosmetic and physical problems related to the vagina and vulva.
Many women, including those who have given birth or are postmenopausal, may suffer from a variety of problems relating to their vulva or vagina. In addition to physical problems, some women may also suffer anxiety about the appearance of their vulva and undergo vaginal rejuvenation for cosmetic purposes.
University of Utah Health reports that common issues that may be treated by vaginal laser rejuvenation may include:
- Urinary incontinence
- A lack of vaginal laxity or tightness
- Vaginal atrophy
- Itching
- Lack of lubrication
- Pain or decreased sensation during intercourse
- Pain with urination
These issues may occur as a result of childbirth, aging, hormone changes, and other factors. Most women who choose vaginal rejuvenation are either postpartum or postmenopausal.
About Energy-Based Devices
Energy-based vaginal rejuvenation devices use focused energy and heat for a variety of treatments, including enhancing collagen and blood vessels, and increasing vaginal tightness and lubrication.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are two main types of energy-based vaginal rejuvenation devices: radiofrequency (RF) treatments and CO2 laser treatments.
RF treatments use electromagnetic waves, similar to the type of waves used in microwaves, to heat the tissue.
CO2 laser treatment uses a laser to heat the upper layers of the skin tissue, which causes tissue in the lower layers to produce more collagen. An increase in collagen makes the skin tighter and firmer.
These treatments are generally quick and fairly painless, although some patients have reported feeling localized warmth at the area of treatment. Most are done with little or no anesthetic, and patients are usually able to continue their day as normal following the procedure.
These procedures are not permanent, and many patients may require multiple sessions in order to achieve their desired results.
Side Effects
Some patients may experience vaginal or vulvar scarring as a result of vaginal rejuvenation using energy-based devices. There is also a risk of bleeding, vaginal infections, vaginal and vulvar burns, and bladder infection following the procedure. Some patients have also reported chronic pain or other chronic issues due to vaginal rejuvenation procedures.
Recalls and Safety Announcements
The U.S. FDA released a safety warning on July 30, 2018, regarding energy-based vaginal rejuvenation devices. According to the FDA, the safety and effectiveness of these devices has not been adequately determined, and use of the devices may lead to dangerous or painful side effects. Patients who have experienced side effects of vaginal rejuvenation are urged to report their experiences through the FDA’s MedWatch reporting tool.
If you or a loved one has suffered harmful side effects after undergoing a vaginal rejuvenation procedure using an energy-based device, you may be entitled to hire an attorney and file a class action lawsuit against the manufacturer of the medical device. Victims who file lawsuits regarding these procedures may be able to pursue compensation for their injuries, as well as financial damages for medical expenses, loss of income or earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
