Vulvovaginal atrophy

Mona Lisa Touch™; a solution for vaginal dryness as a result of menopause, without the use of hormones.   

The Mona Lisa Touch™ is the name of a CO2 laser treatment offering durable results to symptoms often related to vaginal atrophy:

• Vaginal dryness
• Itching and irritation
• Painful sexual intercourse

Origins of vulvovaginal atrophy
Vulvovaginal atrophy and the genitourinary syndrome of menopause are a consequence of the (natural or induced) menopause, meaning that the vulvar and vaginal mucosa gradually becomes thinner and more vulnerable together with a loss of firmness, elasticity and flexibility, following the first 3 to 4 years of the onset of the menopause, i.e. when the hot flushes tend to fade away. Besides dryness of the vagina, a sensation of irritation, itching and/or burning will gradually start to preoccupy these women. Sexual intercourse becomes unpleasant or even painful, resulting in a reduced libido hence an effect on the relationship with the partner. Also a lessened bladder control and/or urinary stress incontinence are frequently reported, hence the new terminology 'genitourinary syndrome of menopause' or GSM. These complaints affect the quality of life (QoL), occur in different combinations and are very common, but remain under-diagnosed and under-treated. Many women however prefer to suffer in silence out of shame or in the strong belief that this is the natural way of things.

What is the treatment?
The laser treatment is performed by an experienced gynaecologist (Dr P. Puttemans) in the office, not the OR. It offers women a painless, durable and non-hormonal solution for all the complaints induced by this atrophy, also for those patients who had to endure a radiotherapy of the pelvis (and ovaries) and/or some types of chemotherapy, that induce a premature menopause.

What results can I get?
During the healing phase following the MonaLisa Touch® treatment a simultaneous rejuvenation of the vulvar and vaginal mucosa occurs in a way it regains a normal thickness, secretion, solidity, flexibility and elasticity. As a result the above-mentioned complaints disappear quickly. In order to avoid disturbing the healing process, a sexual abstinence of about 3 to 4 days is required. Postop antibiotics are unnecessary.

Do I need to repeat the treatment?
The effect of the MonaLisa Touch™ laser is optimal after 3 sessions (with an interval of 1 month in between sessions). After that one ‘maintenance’ session once a year is enough. This not only means that this laser treatment induces a rejuvenation of the vulvovaginal mucosa, but that its effect is also durable for at least 9 to 12 months, without the need for additional treatments with estrogens.

In practice
Dr Puttemans holds consultations at Mediclinic every Wednesday afternoon. Make an appointment online of call Mediclinic (016/58 59 58).