Several factors can strain the muscles and tissues surrounding the vagina during labor and delivery, such as prolonged labor with an extended pushing phase or the delivery of a large baby. As a result, some women may experience vaginal laxity a few months after giving birth.

What is Vaginal Laxity?

During childbirth, the anal sphincter muscle surrounding the vagina can stretch. Excessive stretching can lead to tears in the muscle fibers, resulting in vaginal laxity. Vaginal laxity is characterized by a decrease in vaginal tissue tone.

Symptoms of Postpartum Vaginal Laxity

Symptoms of Postpartum Vaginal Laxity include:

  • Decreased vaginal sensitivity during sexual intercourse;
  • Difficulty in recovering sexual intimacy after childbirth;
  • Genitourinary symptoms, including pelvic organ prolapse (uterine, anterior vaginal wall, or posterior vaginal wall), urinary disorders, stress incontinence (urine leakage when coughing, sneezing, or laughing), and fecal incontinence.

Managing Postpartum Vaginal Laxity

If you experience these symptoms after childbirth, working on restoring vaginal tone is crucial. Options include:

  • Pelvic floor rehabilitation within the first few months after delivery;
  • Dynamic quadripolar radiofrequency therapy for more severe cases.

Dynamic Quadripolar Radiofrequency Therapy

This therapy utilizes thermal waves (radiofrequency) to address tissue tropism loss, improve the firmness and elasticity of the vaginal canal, stimulate collagen and elastin production, restore sensitivity during sexual intercourse, and reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence.

Resolution of Discomfort

Dynamic quadripolar radiofrequency therapy typically involves four sessions over a few months. Each session takes approximately 20 minutes and is scheduled several weeks apart. A booster session may be needed after four to six months. The treatment is painless, with the patient experiencing only a mild intermittent heat sensation. 

If discomfort arises, the treatment can be paused using a biofeedback system controlled by the patient.