Solid State Vaginal Laser for the Treatment of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Preliminary Report

Abstract

Background: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is the new term for vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA). The condition is relevant in more than 50% of women, having an adverse impact on quality of life and sexual relationships. Objective: To assess the efficacy and safety of a new type of non-ablative laser, Solid State Vaginal Laser (SSVL), for vaginal tissue regeneration and rejuvenation. Method: Eighty participants with GSM symptoms were treated with a total of 4 treatments in about two months (every 15 - 20 days) of a non-ablative SSVL (LASEmaR 1500TM-EUFOTON). A cumulative intensity of GSM symptoms using a 10-cm VAS (dryness and/or burning and/or dyspareunia), the vaginal health index (VHI), the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were evaluated. Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ-UI SF) and vaginal bioptic samples were also collected. Results: Improvement following the SSVL was observed on VHIS, VVA symptoms and sexual female function. This finding was also ratified by the improvement of vaginal histological features. After the SSVL treatment, almost all patients (91%) affected by urinary incontinence obtained the complete remission of symptoms. Conclusion: The objective evaluation of VHIS, FSFI and ICIQ-UI SF scores and the histological results indicates a real favorable effect of SSVL on GSM and on urinary incontinence.