THE USE OF CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) LASER IN THE TREATMENT OF VULVOVAGINAL ATROPHY SYMPTOMS IN PERIMENOPAUSAL AND POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN

Abstract

This study explores the efficacy of pixelated carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment in mitigating vulvovaginal atrophy symptoms among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. With a cohort of 96 participants (mean age 47 ± 5 years), the research administered three sessions of vaginal CO2 laser treatment over three months. The primary evaluation metric was patient-reported satisfaction levels, aiming to assess the treatment's impact on alleviating symptoms associated with vulvovaginal atrophy, such as dryness, burning, and discomfort during intercourse. The findings revealed that 98% of the patients experienced significant symptom improvement three months post-treatment. Notably, 89% reported a resolution of sexual dysfunction due to vaginal dryness, and 96% indicated an end to discomfort and burning sensations. Patient satisfaction was remarkably high, with 98% of participants expressing contentment with the outcomes, a sentiment that persisted even one year after the treatment. Furthermore, 95% of the women encountered no discomfort during the procedure, and any post-treatment complaints were mild and temporary, with a watery discharge being the most common. The study concludes that pixel CO2 laser treatment is a practical, painless, and efficient approach for addressing vulvovaginal atrophy symptoms, yielding high patient satisfaction rates.