What is ThermiVa®?

ThermiVa is a non-invasive vaginal rejuvenation treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to address a variety of issues women experience in the genital region. These issues include dryness, laxity of the vaginal mucosa (canal), laxity of the external genitalia including the labia minora, majora, and clitoral hood, as well as stress urinary incontinence.  ThermiVa tightens the vaginal tissue using radiofrequency energy to heat the tissue which results in collagen production.  The collagen production tightens and rejuvenates the tissue.  The generation of heat also results in increased blood supply, which in turn increases sensitivity and lubrication, all resulting in a more satisfactory sexual experience for both the patient and her partner. This treatment is intended to combat the side effects of childbirth and the natural signs of aging, but even women who have not had children or experienced menopause may benefit from the treatments due to the increased blood flow resulting in better sensitivity and lubrication.

The ThermiVa device uses an “S” shaped applicator that gently emits radiofrequency energy to the internal and external vaginal tissues.  The treatment is painless and requires no anesthetic.  Women will experience a warming sensation that should not be painful. Treatments take approximately 30 minutes and there is no downtime required by the patient; in fact women are even encouraged to resume sexual intercourse immediately after the treatment to experience the results.  A treatment plan consists of three treatments, spaced four to six weeks apart.  While results may be seen and felt after just one treatment, a series of three is recommended for maximal results and women should even consider an annual touch up for maximal benefit.

Who is a Candidate?

A candidate for ThermiVa may be a woman who is noticing some laxity of her vaginal tissue, reduced sensation, dryness, discomfort with sexual intercourse, or leakage of urine when sneezing or laughing (also known as stress urinary incontinence).  These issues are more common after childbirth or menopause, but can happen to women of any age or childbearing status. Due to hormone fluctuations, mostly a decrease in estrogen, menopause can cause vaginal dryness which can make intercourse difficult or painful.  While ThermiVa was not specifically designed for the treatment of incontinence (or weak bladder control) many patients have cited this treatment for helping improve their bladder control.

Results

Patients often, but not always, notice results after the first treatment, thus it is recommended that an assessment not be made until the treatment plan is completed. Patients that receive the treatment can expect to have tighter vaginal tissue as well as increase blood flow, helping with moisture and overall comfort. The longevity of the results is dependent on several factors, including smoking, weight changes, and hormones. These factors can have an effect on the body’s collagen production and skin laxity, which could have negative side effects on the treatment results. If re-treatment is necessary, it will be based on the individual’s needs but general maintenance after a treatment series is typically one treatment per year.