The Role of Lasers in Treating Menopausal Symptoms and Promoting Health Equity
With Dr. Maria Sophocles
Menopause is a significant life stage that brings various changes and challenges for women. Among these challenges are symptoms like vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and lichen sclerosis. Recent advancements in gynaecological treatments have introduced the use of lasers to address these issues effectively. This article delves into the insights shared by Dr. Maria Sophocles, a board-certified OBGYN and a pioneer in the use of lasers for treating menopausal symptoms in the United States.
Understanding Laser Treatment in Gynaecology
Lasers have been used in medical treatments since 1964, primarily for dermatological purposes. The adaptation of this technology for gynaecological use was pioneered by two doctors in Italy, who realized that laser energy could be adjusted for use in the vagina and vulva. This innovation led to the development of the first laser specifically designed for vulvovaginal use.
How Laser Treatment Works
The laser treatment involves using a probe that emits laser energy to create tiny injuries in the vaginal tissue. These micro-injuries stimulate the body's natural healing process, leading to the production of new cells, collagen, and blood vessels. This regeneration process helps alleviate symptoms such as vaginal dryness and painful intercourse.
"The laser energy could actually cause these little tiny, tiny injuries that then the body would heal from and make new cells."
Benefits of Laser Treatment
Non-Invasive and Non-Hormonal: Laser treatment offers a non-invasive and non-hormonal alternative for women who cannot or prefer not to use vaginal estrogen.
Long-Lasting Effects: The treatment typically needs to be repeated annually, as the benefits last for about 8 to 10 months.
Minimal Downtime: The procedure is quick, painless, and requires no downtime, allowing women to resume their daily activities immediately.
Addressing Lichen Sclerosis
Lichen sclerosis is a chronic skin condition affecting the vulva, causing extreme itching and irritation. Laser treatment has shown promising results in suppressing the disease process and improving the quality of the affected tissue. This treatment, combined with steroid and vaginal estrogen, can significantly alleviate symptoms.
The Bedroom Gap and Health Equity
Dr. Sophocles emphasizes the importance of addressing the "bedroom gap," a term she coined to describe the difference in sexual expectations between men and women in midlife. Societal norms often overlook the sexual health and comfort of menopausal women, leading to a lack of focus on treatments that can improve their quality of life.
"We don't teach young men and women about pleasure in sex. We teach them how not to get pregnant or how not to get HPV or STDs."
Promoting Sexual Health and Comfort
Education and Awareness: Educating both women and men about the changes that occur during menopause and the available treatments is crucial.
Access to Treatments: Ensuring that women have access to effective treatments like laser therapy can help bridge the gap in sexual health and comfort.
Long-Term Health Maintenance: Treating vaginal and urinary symptoms should be viewed as a long-term health maintenance project, similar to other aspects of health care.
"Helping the bladder and vagina should be a long-term thing. You should just say this is part of my health and I'm so lucky that I can maintain it."
Conclusion
Laser treatment offers a promising solution for alleviating menopausal symptoms and promoting health equity in the bedroom. While it is not the only option, it provides a valuable alternative for women seeking non-hormonal and non-invasive treatments. By increasing awareness and access to such treatments, the quality of life for menopausal women can be significantly improved.
