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The article discusses a new technique called the Lubin method, also known as the lacing-up method, for vaginal rejuvenation to treat women with vaginal laxity. Vaginal laxity refers to a sensation of having a wide vagina during sexual intercourse. The traditional method of vaginoplasty involves tissue trimming, but the Lubin method is a minimally invasive technique that tightens the entire vagina without opening the vaginal wall. The study reports positive outcomes in terms of improved sexual function and no major complications. However, the study has limitations such as a small sample size and the absence of a comparative control group. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Vaginal laxity defined according to the International Urogynecological Association/International Continence society is excessive vaginal looseness; it is one of the most common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, which refers to medical/functional disorders that can have a significant impact on a woman's sexual self‐esteem and sexual life. Aim: This study aimed to determine the impact of the Knack Technique on Pelvic floor muscle (PFM) and sexual function in women with vaginal laxity. Methods: Thirty females complaining of vaginal laxity were randomly chosen from the outpatient clinic at Deraya University. Their ages varied from 35 to 45 years, their body mass index was 25–30 kg/m2, and a number of parities ≤ three normal vaginal deliveries and at least two years from the last delivery complaining about vaginal laxity, water entrapment, and loss of friction during sexual intercourse. They were randomized into two equal groups at random (A, B). Group A (15 females) received (PSTES) and group B (15 females) received (PSTES) and Knack Technique. Both the groups received three sessions per week for 2 months. Evaluation: The outcome measures were evaluated through pre‐ and post‐interventions by using ultrasonography imaging to assess PFM function, Sexual Satisfaction Index, and Vaginal Laxity Questionnaires (VLQ) to assess sexual function. Results: Analysis indicated a significant improvement in vaginal laxity in the two groups. Comparison between groups pre‐ and posttreatment showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the groups B and A in SSI and VLQ, while there were significant differences between the groups A and B in PFM force. Conclusion: Combining Parasacral transcutaneous electrical stimulation (PSTES) and Knack Technique is more effective than PSTES alone in reducing vaginal laxity as well as improving PFM and sexual function in women with vaginal laxity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of the injection of microfragmented adipose tissue in the treatment of women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Methods: This observational cohort study included 12 women who received one session of multiple injections of microfragmented adipose tissue using the SEFFIGYNâ„¢ medical device. Symptoms such as burning, itching, dryness, pain on penetration, pain during deep intercourse, and pain on urination were assessed before the patient's treatment (T0), after 15 days (T15), and after 5 months (5Mo) using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Results: An improvement of vulvar trophism was clinically evident already 2 weeks after treatment; all symptoms were notably attenuated compared with the initial visit, as demonstrated by statistically significant reductions of the NRS scores (P = 0.003 for itching, P = 0.008 for pain on urination, and P < 0.001 for the other symptoms, Sign test). Moreover, all symptoms continued to improve over time. All patients reported a positive change in their quality of life and a resumption of sexual life. Conclusion: The use of microfragmented adipose tissue in GSM is promising. Nevertheless, more studies will be fundamental to exclude a potential placebo effect and better understand the underlying molecular mechanism of action. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of the injection of microfragmented adipose tissue in the treatment of women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Methods: This observational cohort study included 12 women who received one session of multiple injections of microfragmented adipose tissue using the SEFFIGYN™ medical device. Symptoms such as burning, itching, dryness, pain on penetration, pain during deep intercourse, and pain on urination were assessed before the patient's treatment (T0), after 15 days (T15), and after 5 months (5Mo) using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS). Results: An improvement of vulvar trophism was clinically evident already 2 weeks after treatment; all symptoms were notably attenuated compared with the initial visit, as demonstrated by statistically significant reductions of the NRS scores (P = 0.003 for itching, P = 0.008 for pain on urination, and P < 0.001 for the other symptoms, Sign test). Moreover, all symptoms continued to improve over time. All patients reported a positive change in their quality of life and a resumption of sexual life. Conclusion: The use of microfragmented adipose tissue in GSM is promising. Nevertheless, more studies will be fundamental to exclude a potential placebo effect and better understand the underlying molecular mechanism of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the predictive value of measures of levator hiatal distension at rest and on maximum Valsalva maneuver for symptoms of vaginal laxity.Methods: This was a retrospective study of women seen at a tertiary urogynecological unit. All women underwent a standardized interview, clinical examination and four-dimensional translabial ultrasound examination. Area, anteroposterior diameter (APD) and coronal diameter (CD) of the levator hiatus were measured at rest and on maximum Valsalva maneuver in the plane of minimal hiatal dimensions using the rendered volume technique, by an operator blinded to all clinical data. The association between levator hiatal measurements and vaginal laxity was assessed, and receiver-operating-characteristics (ROC)-curve analysis was used to determine their predictive value.Results: Data from 490 patients were analyzed. Mean age was 58 (range, 18-88) years, and vaginal laxity was reported by 111 (23%) women. Measurements obtained on maximum Valsalva were significantly larger in women who reported vaginal laxity than in those who did not, with mean levator hiatal area, APD and CD of 30.45 ± 8.74 cm2 , 7.24 ± 1.16 cm and 5.60 ± 0.89 cm, respectively, in the vaginal-laxity group, compared with 24.84 ± 8.63 cm2 , 6.64 ± 1.22 cm and 5.01 ± 0.97 cm in the no-laxity group (P < 0.001 for all). Measurements obtained at rest were not significantly different between the groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis controlling for age, body mass index, vaginal parity and levator avulsion confirmed these results. The best regression model for the prediction of vaginal laxity included age, vaginal parity and levator hiatal area on maximum Valsalva. ROC-curve analysis of levator hiatal measurements on maximum Valsalva in the prediction of vaginal laxity demonstrated areas under the curve of 0.68 (95% CI, 0.63-0.73) for area, 0.63 (95% CI, 0.57-0.68) for APD and 0.68 (95% CI, 0.62-0.73) for CD.Conclusions: Levator hiatal area on maximum Valsalva seems to be the measure of levator ani distensibility that is most predictive of symptoms of vaginal laxity. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of vaginal laxity (VL) and its correlates in a cohort of women attending a urogynecology clinic in a tertiary referral center in Saudi Arabia.Methods: In this retrospective study, demographic information, clinical characteristics, and POP-Q system measurements for women attending the King Fahad Medical City Urogynecology Clinic (January 2013 to April 2015) were analyzed. Women with and without VL were compared across these variables.Results: Out of 376 women attending the clinic for various reasons, 135 (35.9%) reported VL. VL was more common in younger women (P<0.001). Parity, menopausal status, and diabetes were not associated with this symptom. A history of cesarean delivery was protective (aOR 0.39; 95% CI, 0.17-0.90). A bulge symptom and "vaginal wind" were predictors (aOR 3.25; 95% CI, 1.46-7.23 and aOR 15.48; 95% CI, 6.93-34.56, respectively). There was no correlation between VL and POP-Q measurements. VL was not associated with the presence of clinically significant prolapse (stage 2-4), compared with nonsignificant prolapse (stage 0-1) (P=0.869, P=0.152, and P=0.783 for anterior, posterior, and central vaginal compartment, respectively).Conclusions: In this cohort, VL was common, more prevalent in younger women, and had poorly defined clinical correlates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The clinical role of LASER for vulvar and vaginal treatments in gynecology and female urology is controversial. AIMS: In this best practice document, we propose recommendations for the use of LASER for gynecologic and urologic conditions such as vulvovaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence, vulvodynia, and lichen sclerosus based on a thorough literature review. MATERIALS & METHODS: This project was developed between January and September 2018. The development of this document followed the ICS White Paper Standard Operating Procedures. RESULTS: Most of the available studies are limited by their design; for example they lack a control group, patients are not randomized, follow up is short term, series are small, LASER is not compared with standard treatments, and studies are industry sponsored. Due to these limitations, the level of evidence for the use of LASER in the treatment of these conditions remains low and does not allow for definitive recommendations for its use in routine clinical practice. Histological evidence is commonly reported as proof of tissue regeneration following LASER treatment. However, the histological changes noted can also be consistent with reparative changes after a thermal injury rather than necessarily representing regeneration or restoration of function. The use of LASER in women with vulvodynia or lichen sclerosus should not be recommended in routine clinical practice. There is no biological plausibility or safety data on its use on this population of women. DISCUSSION: The available clinical studies do not present convincing data regarding the efficacy of LASER for the treatment of vaginal atrophy or urinary incontinence. Also, while short‐term complications seem to be uncommon, data concerning long‐term outcomes are lacking. CONCLUSION: At this point, LASER is not recommended for routine treatment of the aforementioned conditions unless part of well‐designed clinical trials or with special arrangements for clinical governance, consent, and audit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Energy‐based devices using radiofrequency and laser technologies have gained popularity as therapies for vaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence, and vaginal prolapse. They have been promoted by cosmetic and aesthetic industries for vaginal "laxity" and vaginal "rejuvenation," both of which are undefined conditions and terms. This article aims to review the current available literature and its quality on this emerging technology. Methods: An international panel of gynaecologists, urogynaecologists, and urologists undertook a review of the available published literature, identifying articles, guidance, and society statements on the use vaginal energy‐based devices. Results: There is currently no formal guidance for the use of vaginal energy based therapies. No randomized controlled trials have been published. No comparative studies to existing treatment has been carried out. Studies suggest that vaginal laser can be used in the treatment of vaginal prolapse or "vaginal laxity" and stress urinary incontinence with no quality evidence supporting the use of the therapy for vaginal atrophy or lichen sclerosis. Conclusions: This international group propose that whilst there remains a paucity of good quality data describing the safety, benefits, and appropriate use of vaginal radiofrequency or laser treatments in gynaecology and urogynaecology, a consensus best practice document by an established scientific community needs to be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective Vaginal childbirth, natural process of aging, congenital factors, and surgical interventions are considered the main causes of vulvo-vaginal laxity driven by changes in collagen and elastin fibers. This causes a loss of strength and flexibility within the vaginal wall. As a result, women may experience lack of sensation and stress urinary incontinence ( SUI)-the condition of involuntary loss of urine associated with activities that cause an increase in intra-abdominal pressure (eg, sneezing, coughing, and lifting). Both vaginal laxity and urinary incontinence significantly affect patients' quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to evaluate efficacy and safety of a noninvasive radiofrequency device when used to treat SUI and vulvo-vaginal laxity through its heating effect which stimulates collagen and elastin fibers. Methods Twenty-seven women (average age 44.78±10.04 years) with indications of mild/moderate SUI as well as vulvo-vaginal laxity were treated with a monopolar radiofrequency device. The treatment course consisted of three once-a-week sessions. Each session included intravaginal treatment followed by treatment of labia majora and the perineum. Improvement in the SUI condition was evaluated by applying the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Urinary Incontinence Short Form ( ICIQ- UI SF). Data were collected at the baseline, after the last treatment and at 1-month follow-up visit. Vaginal laxity was assessed by subjective vulvo-vaginal laxity questionnaire ( VVLQ). Data were collected before the 1st treatment and during the 1-month follow-up visit. Patient's satisfaction was recorded using a satisfaction questionnaire. Data were collected after the last treatment and at the 1-month follow-up visit. Any adverse events related to the treatments were monitored. Results On a scale of 0 to 5, the average frequency of urine leak improved from '2-3 times a week' (2.15±1.03 points prior to treatment) to ' once a week' (1.00±0.78 points post-treatment), and on to ' never' (0.44±0.51 points at the 1-month follow-up visit). Sixteen subjects (59.3%) reported decrease in the amount of leakage, with 15 women (55.6%) becoming completely leak-free at the 1-month follow-up. At the 1-month follow-up visit, 24 subjects (88.9%) expressed their condition's interference with everyday life decreased and 17 patients (62.9%) said the condition did not interfere with their everyday life at all as a result of the treatment. All results are statistically significant ( P<.05). No adverse events were recorded. All subjects reported improvement in vaginal laxity, from average perception of ' very loose' (2.19±1.08 points prior to treatment) to ' moderately tight' (5.74±0.76 points at the 1-month follow-up visit). During the follow-up visit, 89% of the patients ' agreed' or ' strongly agreed' that their SUI condition improved, and 93% of the patients ' agreed' or ' strongly agreed' that their gratification during intercourse improved. None of the subjects reported dissatisfaction. Conclusion The study confirmed the monopolar radiofrequency method as an effective and safe treatment of SUI and vulvo-vaginal laxity. The treatments were well tolerated by all subjects with no adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pelvic floor ( PF) provides support to all pelvic organs, as well as appropriately closure/opening mechanism of the urethra, vagina, and anus. Therefore, it is likely that female athletes involved in high-impact and in strong-effort activities are at risk for the occurrence of urinary incontinence ( UI). This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of UI and other PF dysfunctions ( PFD) [anal incontinence ( AI), symptoms of constipation, dyspareunia, vaginal laxity, and pelvic organ prolapse] in 67 amateur athletes ( AT) compared with a group 96 of nonathletes ( NAT). An ad hoc survey based on questions from reliable and valid instruments was developed to investigate the occurrence of PFD symptoms. The risk of UI was higher in AT group (odds ratio: 2.90; 95% CI: 1.50-5.61), mostly among artistic gymnastics and trampoline, followed by swimming and judo athletes. Whereas, AT group reported less straining to evacuate ( OR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.22-0.96), manual assistance to defecate ( OR: 0.24; 95% CI: 0.05-1.12), and a higher stool frequency ( OR: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.13-0.64) than NAT group. The occurrence of loss of gas and sexual symptoms was high for both groups when compared with literature, although with no statistical difference between them. Pelvic organ prolapse was only reported by nonathletes. Athletes are at higher risk to develop UI, loss of gas, and sexual dysfunctions, either practicing high-impact or strong-effort activities. Thus, pelvic floor must be considered as an entity and addressed as well. Also, women involved in long-term high-impact and strengthening sports should be advised of the impact of such activities on pelvic floor function and offered preventive PFD strategies as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]