Microablative Fractional CO₂ Laser Improves Dyspareunia Related to Vulvovaginal Atrophy: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective This pilot study aimed to assess the efficacy in treating sexually active menopausal patients who had dyspareunia related to vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA). Materials and Methods The intensity of VVA symptoms was recorded for each patient. Patients were administered the Short Form 12 (SF-12) and the female sexual function index (FSFI) to assess quality of life and sexual function, respectively. An objective evaluation of female urogenital health was performed using the Gloria Bachman Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Results At 12-week follow-up, the laser treatment was efficacious in improving dyspareunia in 100% of patients included in the study (n = 15). The intensity of dyspareunia significantly decreased from baseline (8.7 ± 1.0) to 12-week follow-up (2.2 ± 1.0; p<0.001). In addition, all other VVA symptoms significantly ameliorated at the same follow-up. Furthermore, after the treatment, a significant improvement in quality of life (QoL) and sexual function were shown. Conclusions This pilot study demonstrated that treatment with the microablative fractional CO 2 laser of patients with dyspareunia related to VVA was efficacious at 12-week follow-up.