Vaginal Rejuvenation- The Natural Methods

Vaginal rejuvenation refers to any surgical or non-surgical alteration in the anatomy of vaginal structures including both external and internal structures. In most cases, vaginal rejuvenation is done for an increase in vaginal laxity, commonly referred to as vaginal tightening. Vaginal laxity is essentially a feeling of vaginal looseness that is experienced by women during childbirth via the vaginal canal. Vaginal laxity can also be experienced by menopausal women, secondary to a drop in natural estrogen production by the body.

The common issues associated with vaginal laxity include:

1. Incontinence

2. Excessive dryness in the vaginal canal

3. Higher risk of infection

4. Loss of sexual pleasure

Vaginal Laxity after childbirth

During a normal delivery, childbirth occurs through the vaginal canal. This process results in the stretching of the canal and associated damage to the underlying connective tissue. The physiological injuries heal with time. However, the excessive pressure applied during childbirth often leaves the vaginal canal feeling loose aka vaginal laxity.

Vaginal Laxity in menopausal women

In women over 45 years of age, menopause begins to set in causing several hormonal changes. There is a rapid drop in Estrogen production by the body, leading to reduced collagen production. Reduction in collagen production of loss of elasticity in the skin and in several women it also results in vaginal laxity

Vaginal laxity can be treated by natural means to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and reverse the symptoms associated with it. In this article we will be enumerating the same:

1. Kegel Exercises:

Kegel exercises are the most preferred and highly effective set of exercises aimed toward the correction of vaginal laxity. These include mainly the “clutch and release” action to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. 

When you’re first starting Kegel exercises, finding the right set of muscles can be tricky. One way to find them is by placing a clean finger inside your vagina and tightening your vaginal muscles around your finger. You can also locate the muscles by trying to stop your urine mid-flow. The muscles you use for this action are your pelvic floor muscles. Get used to how they feel when they contract and relax.

To practice kegel, engage the pelvic floor muscles, Hold for 5-10 secs, and release. Repeat at least 5-10 times several times a day for an effective workout.

2. Squats

Squats are the perfect exercise for toning and strengthening the lower body. Squats done properly also help to reinforce the pelvic muscles, thereby aiding to combat vaginal laxity. Adding weights to squat exercises boosts the effectiveness further.

3. Pelvic Stretching

The easiest way to do a pelvic stretch is to sit on the edge of a chair, spread your legs, bend towards your ankles, and spread your arms out. The pelvis area should be stretched inwards. 

4. Pilates

Pilates exercises depend on bracing the core and breath control for all of its movements. The abdominal and pelvic floor muscles are braced and thus, strengthened through pilates.

5. Bridge Hold

Bridge hold exercise essentially refers to holding the lower abdomen and pelvic muscles in a plank position. Make sure you squeeze the butt and brace your core while holding the bridge pose. The longer you hold this position, the greater the effectiveness of the exercise.

6. Leg up exercise

Lie flat on the floor, brace your core and gradually raise your legs towards the ceiling. Hold for as long as possible and release. Repeat the exercise 7-8 times to help with pelvic floor strengthening.

7. Foods high in Estrogen

As mentioned earlier, estrogen levels plummet significantly in the menopausal phase. This is a major factor in vaginal laxity. Fenugreek, sesame seeds, pomegranates, soybeans, and their products, carrots, wheat berries, avocado, and apples are high in natural estrogens. This is a natural way to combat vaginal laxity.

All the methods stated above are natural methods aiding to help reduce vaginal laxity. However, if issues persist it is always a good idea to consult your gynecologist and create a treatment plan exclusively for your needs.