Vaginal hyperlaxity is a more common disorder than is believed. It consists of a loss of tension in the vaginal walls. The most common symptoms are a feeling of widening and discomfort.
Although it is not a major problem, it has an impact on quality of life, because it can make sex less pleasurable and reduce sensitivity. It can also cause difficulties when using tampons or the menstrual cup (which fall out more easily), increase vaginal flatulence, water intake when performing water sports and cause urine losses when doing things that require physical exertion (laughing, coughing, lifting heavy objects, running, etc.). It is often associated with a decreased muscle tone, so it also requires working on the pelvic floor muscles.
It can occur as a result of several causes, but most cases are usually due to pregnancies and births, which stretch and weaken the walls of the vagina. Other factors that can cause its onset are the ageing of tissues, excess weight and the practice of some high-impact sports, such as running.
In general, it is a problem that cannot always be prevented, but if you find yourself in this situation it may be useful to ask for an assessment from a physiotherapist who is a pelvic floor expert. However, the most effective thing is to use some kind of regenerative gynaecology treatment.
Treatments for vaginal hyperlaxity
There are several treatments to treat vaginal hyperlaxity. But in order to assess which one may be the most suitable in each case, the best thing is to visit a regenerative and functional gynaecologist.
FAQs
Can this problem increase the risk of prolapse?
Prolapse derives from the same causes. Therefore, if hyperlaxity is maintained over time and is not treated, it can result in prolapse.
What treatments are the least invasive for treating hyperlaxity?
Regenerative treatments associated with physiotherapy are the least invasive treatments that we have available to treat these symptoms.
Are they painful?
None of the treatments are painful. On our website you can read information on each of them.
What cases can be treated only with physiotherapy?
Cases in which there is hypotonia (low tone) of the musculature, although vaginal hyperlaxity usually has two components: the laxness of the tissue, which, as it is more tense, causes this feeling of widening, and the lack of muscle tone.
How long do the effects of the treatment last?
Laser treatment requires booster sessions, which will be evaluated in subsequent follow-ups. Patients usually experience an improvement in the symptoms, without the need for a new treatment until 6 to 18 months later. n the case of using the electromagnetic chair, booster or physiotherapy sessions must be carried out to avoid losing the work already done.
What factors can cause vaginal hyperlaxity?
Childbirth is one of the most common causes, mainly if there have been several, or if the babies have been large or the births have been difficult or instrumental ones. Ageing, some genetic factors, significant weight fluctuations (mainly increase), smoking, having a chronic cough and constipation are also factors.
Why does laser treatment improve hyperlaxity?
Laser treatment produces controlled heat in the vaginal tissue that stimulates the production of collagen, which strengthens the vaginal walls.
After laser treatment, how long does it take to notice the results?
Generally, the effects can be noticed after the second session, although it is recommended that you wait up to 6 weeks after the sessions have ended. At that time, we carry out a follow-up to assess the response to the treatment.
