What is vaginal tightening surgery, can it help with incontinence after childbirth and the menopause and how much does it cost?
Vaginal tightening surgery, often called vaginoplasty, is a reconstructive procedure that aims to 'tighten up' a vagina
SOME women undergo surgery to “tighten” their vagina after it becomes loose from childbirth or aging.
But how much does the procedure cost and what happens during the surgery?
What is vaginal tightening surgery?
Vaginal tightening surgery, often called vaginoplasty, is a reconstructive procedure that aims to “tighten up” a vagina that has become slack.
It can be undertaken to rebuild the pelvic floor when the vagina tissue and muscle has been severely stretched.
Stretching typically occurs during childbirth, when the muscles of the vagina loosen and stretch during a natural delivery.
While this is very common, issues arise when the muscles stay weak afterwards.
Is vaginal tightening surgery painful?
During the operation, most patients go under general anaesthetic, which means the procedure is pain-free.
It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort after surgery, but usually this subsides within a few days.
Patients are usually required to attend a follow-up appointment to check on the progress of healing.
Many clinics advise you refrain from exercise or sexual intercourse until you are fully healed, which can take up to six weeks.
Can vaginal tightening surgery help with incontinence after childbirth and the menopause?
If the vagina muscles stay loose, this can lead to stress incontinence and sexual dysfunction.
Women who experience stress incontinence should talk to their GP about the options available, but could be advised to get urethra tightening.
Some women experience stress incontinence after going through menopause.
During this time hormone changes can cause vagina dryness, which can lead to discomfort, infections and uncomfortable intercourse.
How much does vaginal tightening surgery cost?
Typically vaginoplasty costs around £6,000, but this can vary depending on the individual case.
Often patients will have a consultation with a surgeon prior to surgery to determine how much this will cost.
Some treatments for stress incontinence are available on the NHS.