Fractional CO₂ Laser Treatment for Female Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome: A Prospective Study

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Minimally Invasive Procedures
• Women's Health

Background:

• Vaginal relaxation syndrome (VRS) impacts women's quality of life.
• Non-surgical treatments offer limited benefits for mild to moderate VRS.
• Fractional CO2 (FxCO2) laser therapy is a potential minimally invasive option, but long-term data are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively assess the efficacy and safety of FxCO2 therapy for mild to moderate VRS.
• To evaluate improvements in sexual function and vaginal health over 12 months.

Main Methods:

• 101 women with mild to moderate VRS participated in a prospective, self-controlled study.
• Three FxCO2 treatment sessions were administered at 4-week intervals.
• Outcomes measured included FSFI, VLQ, and VHI scores at baseline and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements were observed in FSFI (21.4 to 25.9), VLQ (2.68 to ~3.0), and VHI (17.0 to 19.25) scores (p < 0.001).
• Treatment efficacy was consistent across subgroups based on parity, age, and urinary incontinence.
• Only mild, transient adverse events were reported, resolving spontaneously.

Conclusions:

• FxCO2 therapy effectively enhances sexual function, vaginal tightness, and mucosal health in women with VRS.
• The treatment shows promising short-term efficacy with a favorable safety profile.
• FxCO2 laser therapy represents a viable option for managing vaginal relaxation syndrome.