Vaginal relaxation syndrome (VRS) is characterized by slackening of the connective tissues of the vagina (vaginal) and pelvic floor. Causes are often one or more births. Vacuum or forceps deliveries in particular damage the pelvic floor. Other factors are connective tissue weakness, obesity and increasing age. Hormone deficiency during the menopause exacerbates the development.Sexually, physical and psychological problems may result from a reduction in sexual satisfaction in both the woman and the man. In Anglo-American the unattractive term ” loose vagina” is often used.
Other situations often associated with this problem are stress incontinence, as well as an overactive bladder (up to the so-called urge incontinence) and frequent urination at night (nocturia).Note: Symptoms of stress incontinence are present when urine escapes involuntarily when coughing or sneezing.
Treatment options
Conservative therapy options always represent the 1st step of therapy: Pelvic floor training. Biofeedback or weight reduction may be helpful. Because hormone deficiency has an inducing or reinforcing effect during the climacteric, local therapy with estrogens, especially estriol in low doses, is highly recommended. Surgical therapy should be considered only after conservative options have been exhausted. It is often unsatisfactory, apart from the possibility of complications.
Laser therapy for vaginal relaxation syndrome
With innovative, breakthrough CO2 or Er:Yag laser therapy, there is a simple, noninvasive, highly effective way to treat this problematic condition. This is done by stimulating the body’s own regenerative mechanisms.
Although the two lasers have different wavelengths, their effect is comparable. It is characterized by regeneration of the vaginal epithelium and the underlying subepithelial tissue (lamiana propria).
In the climacteric, microscopically detectable degenerative epithelium becomes multilayered again and deposits glycogen once more. Subepithelially, the formation of collagenous and elastic fibers is stimulated, leading to the storage of fluid and hyaluronic acid, which is so important for health. New capillaries are formed, which leads to an improved oxygen supply of the tissue with a long-lasting effect. In addition, the pelvic floor strengthens and the sphincters of the urethra and bladder show improved function. These effects have been demonstrated microscopically and by controlled studies.
Even in young patients who do not yet have hormone deficiency, but in whom the subepithelial connective tissue and pelvic floor have been damaged, e.g., by childbirth or surgical manipulation, there is histological (fine-tissue) evidence of regeneration of epithelial and subepithelial tissue.
Significant improvements in pelvic floor function and sexual satisfaction of up to 70-80% have been reported [review: 8]. This fits well with our own experiences, where both partners confirm significant improvement in sexual sensation and orgasmic experience. The treatment itself is virtually painless and without complications.
