Vaginal laxity

The vagina is an incredibly flexible organ, capable of stretching to accommodate various functions such as childbirth, sexual intercourse, and medical examinations. Its elasticity allows it to return to its original shape after these events. However, factors like childbirth, aging, hormonal changes, and medical conditions can lead to vaginal laxity, where the vaginal walls lose their elasticity and become loose.

During childbirth, the vaginal muscles stretch significantly to allow for the passage of the baby's head, which can cause damage to the vaginal tissue over time. Additionally, hormonal changes, particularly the decline in estrogen levels that occurs with age, can lead to thinning, dryness, and decreased elasticity of vaginal tissue.

Vaginal elasticity changes begin around the age of 40. This is because the level of the hormone oestrogen begins to decline as a woman enters the perimenopause stage. Because of the lack of oestrogen, your vaginal tissue will be thinner, drier, less acidic, and less stretchy. When you reach menopause, these changes may become more pronounced.

Symptoms of vaginal laxity can include a sensation of looseness or sagging in the vagina, reduced sexual sensation or satisfaction, and issues like urinary incontinence or difficulty controlling urine flow. Vaginal dryness or irritation may also occur, leading to discomfort during intercourse. In severe cases, vaginal laxity can contribute to pelvic organ prolapse.

Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to address vaginal laxity. Non-surgical approaches include pelvic floor exercises, hormonal therapy, laser treatments, magnetic chair therapy, and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections, all aimed at improving vaginal elasticity and tone. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to tighten the vaginal walls and restore overall tone and elasticity.

Overall, understanding the causes and symptoms of vaginal laxity empowers individuals to seek appropriate treatment options, ultimately improving their quality of life and well-being.