The effects of a real-time temperature monitoring non-ablative monopolar radiofrequency technology on vulvovaginal atrophy symptoms in postmenopausal Chinese women

J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Jun;23(6):2030-2043. doi: 10.1111/jocd.16251. Epub 2024 Mar 7.

Abstract

Background: Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) includes a wide range of conditions affecting the reproductive and urinary systems, often requiring careful evaluation and management for optimal health.

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the symptom management effects of a real time temperature-monitored non-ablative RF device for the treatment of postmenopausal Chinese women with VVA symptoms.

Methods: This pilot study involved 24 postmenopausal Chinese women with one or more VVA symptoms, who wished to remain sexually active. VHIS, VAS, and FSFI were used to track and evaluate various aspects of the patient's condition. Analyses were conducted at the end of the study to verify the statistical significance of the treatment's results.

Results: All patients reported substantial, statistically significant, improvements on every VVA symptom tracked. Approximately 80% of the patients reported total symptom reversal at 12-week post-treatment follow-up.

Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrated that non-ablative, monopolar RF technology equipped with real time temperature monitoring is feasible and safe in the treatment of postmenopausal women with VVA symptoms, and efficacious at up to 12 weeks post-treatment.

Keywords: GSM; energy‐based vaginal rejuvenation; menopause; radiofrequency; vulvovaginal atrophy.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Asian People
  • Atrophy*
  • China
  • East Asian People
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Monitoring, Physiologic / instrumentation
  • Monitoring, Physiologic / methods
  • Pilot Projects
  • Postmenopause*
  • Radiofrequency Therapy / adverse effects
  • Radiofrequency Therapy / instrumentation
  • Radiofrequency Therapy / methods
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vagina* / pathology
  • Vaginal Diseases / pathology
  • Vaginal Diseases / therapy
  • Vulva* / pathology
  • Vulva* / radiation effects