European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG) position statement on the use of laser vaginal devices for treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, vaginal laxity, pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence

Abstract

One in three women will experience pelvic floor disorders in her lifetime and nearly 60 percent of postmenopausal women are affected by vaginal dryness. Conservative management is recommended as first line treatment for pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. Also, vaginal estrogens are often prescribed for symptomatic vaginal atrophy. Lasers have been used in cosmetic industry for connective tissue remodeling and repair of skin. Their use in the last decade for treating genitourinary symptoms of menopause, pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence has gained popularity but there is lack of robust evidence to support its use in routine practice. The European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology calls for high quality evidence with patient related outcome measures before adopting to routine clinical practice.