CO2 laser in gynaecology: what to know
Where carbon dioxide laser is used in gynaecology, how long a session takes, how many sessions are usually needed, whether it hurts and what follows the procedure.
As medical technology has advanced, carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers have come into frequent use in gynaecology as well as in dermatology and general surgery. Below is general information on the main uses in gynaecology, what a session involves and the question of pain.
Main uses
CO2 laser in gynaecology is used for both functional and cosmetic purposes:
- symptomatic treatment of the genitourinary syndrome of the menopause, and menopause-related vaginal dryness
- stress urinary incontinence — leaking with a cough, a sneeze or exercise — in patients without advanced prolapse
- recurrent vaginitis (vaginal infection) and vulvar vestibulitis syndrome
- symptomatic treatment of lichen sclerosus in the genital area
- treatment of genital warts (condyloma) and other lesions (changes in the tissue)
- vaginal tightening and renewal of the vulvovaginal tissue
- lightening of pigmentation and renewal of the skin in the external genital area (labia majora and perineum)
- cutting tissue during surgical operations such as labiaplasty (incision and excision)
How long it takes, and how many sessions
The length depends on the size of the area being treated and on the aim, but vaginal procedures take on average 15-20 minutes. With advanced probes this can be shorter. The standard protocol usually recommends 3 sessions at intervals of 1 to 1.5 months (4-6 weeks). To maintain the effect, a single reminder session may be given at month 12, or the treatment may need repeating every 2-3 years, according to the patient's complaints.
Does it hurt?
The patient is awake during the procedure, and the procedure does not cause burns inside the vagina. CO2 laser treatment is generally tolerable and anaesthesia is usually not needed. During the application there may be only a mild stinging or a sensation of warmth. For patients with a low pain threshold, or where there is tenderness at the vaginal opening (the introitus), a local anaesthetic cream applied 10-15 minutes beforehand keeps the patient comfortable. For those who are very apprehensive, sedation producing a light sleep is also an option.
Afterwards, patients return to their daily activities the same day. To support healing and prevent infection, 7 days without sex is generally advised.
Results of any surgical or interventional procedure can vary from person to person. It is advisable to obtain a detailed opinion from your doctor before the procedure.
See also genital laser treatment.