Nonablative, Noncoagulative Multipolar Radiofrequency and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Treatment Improves Vaginal Laxity and Sexual Function

• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Mary Ann Liebert 2021-07-01
• Series: Women's Health Reports
• Online Access: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/WHR.2021.0020

Objective: This study investigated nonablative/noncoagulative multipolar radiofrequency and pulsed electromagnetic field (RF/PEMF) treatment for vaginal laxity (VL) and its impact on sexual function in parous women. Methods: This prospective, open-label single-center study enrolled 34 female subjects, 23?59 years of age, with ?1 vaginal delivery and self-reported VL. Three monthly intravaginal treatments with RF/PEMF energy were performed. Treatment and follow-up assessments included the vaginal health index (VHI), vaginal pH, female sexual function index (FSFI), and VL/sexual satisfaction (SS) and subject satisfaction scores. Mean score and percent improvement over baseline were reported. Subject discomfort/pain was assessed after each treatment. Results: Total and each individual domain scores of the VHI improved significantly, while vaginal pH levels decreased from baseline to both 1 and 4 months (p?<?0.01) after the last treatment. FSFI (<0.001), VL (<0.001), and SS (<0.001), including overall satisfaction scores (<0.01), improved post-treatment, with positive effects further sustained until at least 4 months post-treatment. Pain/discomfort post-treatment was reported as none to mild. No noticeable adverse events (AEs) or unanticipated side effects were reported. Conclusions: Nonablative/noncoagulative multipolar RF/PEMF is safe and is associated with significant 1- and 4-month post-treatment improvements in symptoms associated with VL and sexual dysfunction, as assessed by the VHI, vaginal pH, FSFI, and VL subject satisfaction score. SS and overall satisfaction scores also improved. The treatment was well tolerated with no or little pain, and no adverse events were reported. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT04607798.