While advancing in age does not mean that you will notice all of the effects right away, it is important to note that it can have a major effect on the reproductive system. Getting older has various impacts on the body, such as the firmness of the skin, the muscles’ strength, and the balance of the hormones. Another crucial aspect that tends to be left behind while discussing the issues of growing old is how the vagina is impacted. As women age, the vagina tends to be less firm, which has an impact on the life of the individual in various aspects. There is quite the connection between aging and the need for vaginal tightening.
Understanding Vaginal Laxity
Vaginal laxity refers to the thinning of the vaginal walls. It may occur due to various causes, primarily the natural process of growing older and childbirth. The vagina consists of muscles, connective tissue, and collagen that maintain the vagina’s firm but elastic structure. Over time, these components weaken due to the hormonal shift, particularly once the level of estrogen decreases, causing the vagina to be less firm and elastic. This condition tends to occur to women that deliver through the vaginal canal because labor can stretch it permanently. But women that have never given birth are also prone to vaginal looseness due to age, hormonal changes, and other lifestyle issues.
The Role that Aging Plays in Vaginal Changes
Aging affects the vagina differently primarily because the estrogen level decreases. The vaginal walls are kept flexible, wet, and thickened by estrogen. As women approach menopause, the decrease in estrogen causes various signs that include:
Thinning of Vaginal Walls
Vaginal walls thin out and become less elastic, thus causing them to become loose.
Less Collagen Production
Collagen makes the skin firm and the muscles strong. As one grows older, the body produces less collagen that makes the vagina loose.
Loss of Muscle Toning
As other muscles throughout the body weaken with age, the vaginal muscles and the muscles of the pelvic floor also weaken. This causes them to be less toned and supportive.
Lower Blood Circulation
The vaginal region receives reduced blood circulation, which delays the healing of the tissues and makes them less elastic.
Vaginal Dryness
With the decrease in estrogen, the natural lubricant decreases. This makes sex painful and causes the vagina to be loose.
Effects of Loose Vaginal Muscles on Women’s Lives
Vaginal laxity does not concern appearance but has a big impact on the physical life, emotional life, and sex life of a woman. Some common outcomes are:
Less Sexual Pleasure
With a loose vagina, there will be less rubbing during sex that will decrease both partners’ sexual enjoyment.
Urinary Incontinence
With weakened vaginal muscles and pelvic floor muscles, one develops stress urinary incontinence. This produces involuntary leaking during coughing, sneezing, or physical exertion.
Reduced Confidence
Most women are uncomfortable about vaginal shape changes that affect how they think about themselves and about themselves and their intimate partners.
Discomfort and Irritation
Vaginal looseness and vaginal dryness lead to discomfort, irritation, and itchiness during sex.
Solutions for Vaginal Tightening
Fortunately, women suffering from vaginal laxity have various options to explore. The options range from non-invasive to surgical options, depending upon the severity of the issue and the desire of the individual.
Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (Kegels)
Kegel exercises are an easy and uncomplicated means to strengthen the vaginal muscles and the muscles of the pelvic floor. Regular Kegel exercises will strengthen the muscles and alleviate issues with looseness and urine leakage.
Laser and Radiofrequency Treatment
Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation therapies such as radiofrequency and laser therapy stimulate the production of collagen and tighten the vagina. The vaginal tissues are heated using these therapies to initiate natural healing that enhances vaginal flexibility.
Vaginal Rejuvenation Surgery (Vaginoplasty)
For women seeking a permanent fix, there is a procedure that will strengthen the muscles within the vagina and eliminate excess tissue. This procedure typically will be recommended to individuals having noticeable vaginal looseness that has occurred through age or childbirth.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone replacement therapy can correct issues created by low estrogen to allow the vagina to be more elastic and wet. But it is a wise move to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of HRT with a healthcare professional.
Lifestyle Modifications
Staying healthy will keep the vagina healthy. Drinking water regularly, having a balanced diet, and keeping fit will maintain muscles strong and flexible tissues. Avoiding excessive drinking and not smoking will also maintain blood circulation and the level of collagen.
If you are interested in learning more about vaginal tightening, and to find out if this can help you, call the office of Dr. Ghozland today at 310-393-9359 and we will be happy to get you scheduled!