Mona Lisa Touch® is a simple, non-surgical laser treatment for vaginal rejuvenation that has provided life-changing results for thousands of women around the world. At HaneyGYN, we are proud to offer this game-changing treatment to the women of Nashville, TN, and the surrounding area. Read on to learn the answers to some of your most frequently asked questions about Mona Lisa Touch®.
What is MonaLisa Touch®?
The MonaLisa Touch® is a carbon dioxide laser specifically designed to treat vaginal tissue. Similar to laser facial treatments, the procedure uses lasers to make micro-abrasions or tiny scratches in the vaginal wall, which stimulate the growth of new blood vessels and promotes healing. Furthermore, the gentle laser treatment can regenerate your vaginal tissue safely and effectively. Additionally, it provides you with a hormone-free, medication-free solution to a range of pelvic health conditions.
What conditions does the MonaLisa Touch® help treat?
Naturally, your estrogen levels decline as you age, especially after menopause. As this happens, your vaginal tissue can atrophy, meaning your vaginal tissue becomes thinner and dryer than when you were younger. This may also cause your vaginal tissue to become inflamed and cause itching, burning, discomfort, and even bleeding.
Vaginal atrophy may also cause you to experience the following conditions, which Mona Lisa Touch can help treat and reverse
- Painful penetration and intercourse
- Sexual dysfunction
- Vaginal discomfort or bleeding
- Frequent/chronic urinary tract infections
- Stress urinary incontinence (leaking urine when you sneeze, laugh, or cough)
- Lichen sclerosus (a common postmenopausal skin condition)
- Stretched vaginal tissue (vaginal laxity)
What happens during the procedure?
During a Mona Lisa Touch treatment, gentle laser energy is delivered to the vaginal wall tissue and stimulates a healing response in the vaginal canal. A small metal wand much like an ultrasound wand is inserted into the vagina (in the same place where a tampon would be inserted) and turned in a clockwise and counterclockwise motion targeting the vaginal tissue. The laser treatment is painless, minimally invasive, and takes less than 5 minutes to perform. Some patients report mild discomfort with the laser tip insertion during the first procedure if there is vaginal dryness or atrophy. Patients experience very little downtime or side effects and the procedure is performed in the comfort of our office. Anesthesia is not necessary.
Most women can return to their normal routine soon after having MonaLisa Touch treatment, although you may be asked to refrain from sexual intercourse for two or three days.
What is the treatment process? How many treatments will I need?
The MonaLisa Touch® requires a series of three to four laser sessions. These 5-minute sessions are scheduled about six weeks apart. Additionally, some patients may require treatment touch-ups once a year.
Does the MonaLisa Touch® cause any side effects?
Most women are able to tolerate treatments very well. However, some may experience temporary, minor side effects such as mild vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, tenderness, itching, or burning.
Is MonaLisa Touch® right for me?
This treatment is ideal for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, as well as women with breast cancer who experience vaginal dryness as a result of chemotherapy or hormone therapy. Additionally, younger women who have experienced stretched vaginal tissue due to childbirth may benefit from this treatment.
For more info about MonaLisa Touch, as well as to help determine if the treatment is right for you, call us at 615.736.4187.
Caring for women at all stages of life is what HaneyGYN is all about. Whether you’re the parent of a teen who needs gynecology care or in need of care yourself, Dr. Haney is here to help. We take the time to truly get to know you and understand your unique needs to provide personalized, effective care. Learn more about our practice by contacting us today.