The Different Types of Vaginal Rejuvenation Treatments: Which One is Right for You?

Our bodies naturally go through changes over time, and for women, these changes can be especially pronounced during life events like pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and the aging process. These shifts can impact vaginal health, which often receives less attention than it deserves. At Northstate Plastic Surgery in Chico, CA, we offer both surgical and non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments to address these concerns and restore both comfort and function.

Common Causes of Vaginal Issues

Childbirth

Childbirth can strain the vaginal tissue and surrounding structures. The process often stretches and weakens the muscles and causes changes in vaginal tone and support. These changes may lead to symptoms like reduced elasticity, discomfort during intimacy, or a sensation of heaviness. Natural tearing or an episiotomy during delivery can also leave scarring and contribute to long-term discomfort or functional challenges.

Aging

As the body ages, collagen production decreases, leading to a natural decline in tissue firmness. This affects the vaginal walls, which can become thinner and less elastic over time. The lack of collagen can also reduce the skin’s ability to retain moisture which may be the cause of your vaginal dryness or discomfort. Certain treatments can help restore elasticity and improve comfort by encouraging collagen remodeling or tightening the surrounding structures.

Menopause

Hormonal changes during menopause result in lower estrogen levels which is another cause of vaginal tissues becoming thinner, less hydrated, and more fragile. Along with hot flashes, sleep changes, and mood swings, menopause can cause dryness, itching, discomfort, and structural changes. Estrogen loss can also weaken the pelvic floor. 

Lifestyle Factors

Certain lifestyle factors, like smoking or frequent high-impact exercise, can contribute to vaginal tissue changes over time. Smoking impacts circulation and collagen production, which are important for tissue health, while repetitive strain from activities like heavy lifting can weaken the pelvic floor. Weight fluctuations can stretch and strain the supportive structures. Non-surgical vaginal tightening treatments or surgical options may help counteract the impact of these factors.

Common Sexual Wellness Issues for Women

Vaginal Atrophy

Vaginal atrophy refers to the thinning and drying of the vaginal walls, often caused by reduced estrogen levels. This condition is most commonly seen during menopause but can also occur after childbirth, during breastfeeding, or due to certain medical treatments like chemotherapy. Without sufficient estrogen, the vaginal tissue becomes less elastic, and blood flow to the area decreases, resulting in reduced thickness and lubrication. Vaginal atrophy can cause symptoms such as dryness, burning, itching, and discomfort during intimacy, as well as an increased risk of infections.

Vaginal Laxity

Vaginal laxity is a loss of tightness and support in the vaginal walls and surrounding structures. This can lead to a looser sensation, reduced sensation during intimacy, and sometimes a feeling of heaviness or bulging. Vaginal laxity can also affect the pelvic floor muscles, potentially contributing to other issues such as urinary incontinence.

Urinary Incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine, often triggered by coughing, sneezing, laughing, or physical activity. This is caused by a weakening of the pelvic floor muscles and surrounding tissues because of childbirth or aging. Stress incontinence is the most common type, but some women may also experience urgency incontinence, where there is a sudden, intense urge to urinate. In many cases, urinary incontinence is related to reduced support for the bladder and urethra, which can be addressed through pelvic floor strengthening or surgery.

Pain During Sex

Pain during sex, known as dyspareunia, can result from vaginal dryness, scarring from childbirth or surgery, or pelvic floor muscle tension. Hormonal changes can make intimacy uncomfortable or even painful. Emotional factors like stress or anxiety can also contribute. To address pain during sex, we identify the root cause and then recommend the appropriate solution.

Vaginal Dryness

Your body produces natural lubrication through a combination of glandular secretions and increased blood flow to the vaginal walls. During arousal, the Bartholin’s glands near the vaginal opening, along with mucus-secreting cells in the vaginal walls, work together to create lubrication. A drop in estrogen levels can interfere with this process and certain medications, such as antihistamines or hormonal contraceptives, can also reduce natural lubrication. Increasing blood flow and the health of vaginal tissues can improve natural lubrication.

Surgical Vaginal Rejuvenation Treatments

Vaginoplasty

Vaginoplasty is a surgery that tightens the vaginal canal and surrounding tissues. It addresses laxity caused by childbirth, aging, or weakened muscles and tissue. The procedure removes excess tissue and brings the muscles closer together to improve strength and support. It can enhance sensation during intimacy, reduce looseness, and repair damage like scarring from childbirth. Recovery takes several weeks, during which patients should avoid strenuous activities and follow specific care instructions.

Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty reshapes or reduces the size of the labia minora, the inner folds around the vaginal opening. Women often seek this surgery to relieve discomfort from enlarged or asymmetrical labia, irritation during physical activity or intimacy, or aesthetic concerns. The procedure trims or reshapes excess tissue for a smoother, more balanced appearance. It can also address changes to the labia majora caused by aging or weight fluctuations. Most patients heal within one to two weeks and are advised to maintain hygiene and avoid pressure on the area while recovering.

Non-Surgical Vaginal Rejuvenation With Viveve®

What Is Viveve?

Viveve is a non-surgical treatment for vaginal laxity, dryness, and reduced sensation. It uses radiofrequency (RF) technology to stimulate collagen production and restore tissue elasticity. This approach targets both functional and aesthetic concerns and offers results for women seeking vaginal rejuvenation without surgery.

How Does It Work?

Viveve uses a handheld device that delivers the radiofrequency energy to the vaginal tissue. The RF energy gently heats the tissues and triggers the natural production of collagen while improving blood flow. The treatment takes about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. During the appointment, a small applicator is inserted and rotated to treat the entire area evenly. Most patients report minimal to no discomfort during the session. Results develop gradually over the weeks following the procedure as collagen production increases, with improvements often lasting up to a year or more.

Who Is It For?

Viveve is ideal for women experiencing mild to moderate vaginal laxity, dryness, or decreased sensation. It is a great option for those who want to improve vaginal health without extended recovery time. Women seeking a non-invasive approach to enhancing comfort during intimacy or addressing functional concerns may find Viveve a suitable solution.

Enhance Your Wellbeing With Vaginal Rejuvenation in Chico, CA

Vaginal rejuvenation can address a wide range of concerns, from improving comfort to enhancing function, using both surgical and non-surgical options. At Northstate Plastic Surgery, we offer treatments to help women in Chico, CA, feel more confident in their vaginal health and overall well-being. To learn more or schedule a consultation, call us at (530) 345-5900 or contact us through our online form today.