17 Jul
The MonaLisa Touch Laser: Everything You Need to Know
Women’s estrogen levels drop when they enter menopause—also known as the end of the menstrual cycle. Low estrogen levels cause various changes in the body, including acne formations, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Vaginal dryness can make intercourse painful and undesirable. Fortunately, the MonaLisa Touch relieves this discomfort by healing the vaginal tissue lining and restoring moisture.
Keep reading to learn more about the MonaLisa Touch treatment.
What Is MonaLisa Touch?
The MonaLisa Touch is a noninvasive laser treatment for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), also known as vaginal atrophy. It’s an alternative to estrogen therapy for women who are seeking treatment.
GSM is caused by low estrogen, typically during menopause when the ovaries start putting this responsibility on the body’s fat cells. However, women may also experience a similar estrogen deficiency if they have had their ovaries removed.
Regardless of how they got there—be it by natural aging or surgery—women can expect to experience one or several of the following symptoms:
- Vaginal dryness
- Vaginal itching, irritation, or burning
- Vaginal discomfort and bleeding
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Urinary incontinence
- Urinary tract infection
The MonaLisa Touch Laser offsets many of these symptoms by restoring the vagina’s self-lubricating abilities by repairing tissues in the vaginal wall.
It uses a fractional carbon dioxide laser to deliver pulsed energy to the vaginal skin, inciting the production of new fibroblasts and collagen. The laser also stimulates new blood vessels and helps to reduce inflammation in the area.
What Happens During Treatment?
Patients should choose a reputable clinic for the MonaLisa Touch treatment. It should only be performed by a trained professional and never without the approval of your doctor.
The MonaLisa Touch is a noninvasive process in which a doctor applies a numbing cream before inserting a small probe inside the vagina. This probe contains the carbon dioxide laser that sends out gentle pulses to stimulate collagen and elastin production.
Patients should expect to feel relief after just one session. This relief will only further increase as they complete the remaining two treatments, usually spread six weeks apart. They must return a year later for a check-up.
Why Not Choose Estrogen Supplements?
Hormone therapy can effectively manage menopause symptoms, which include vaginal atrophy. However, not all women are comfortable with hormonal supplementation given the risks of its side effects.
Even short-term use is associated with an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and coronary heart disease. As such, even those who are comfortable with these risks may not be prescribed supplements by their doctor based on their age or other factors.
Ultimately, women seeking treatment for vaginal atrophy should choose whichever option makes them feel most comfortable.
What Are the MonaLisa Touch Side Effects?
The MonaLisa Touch has remedied the vaginal atrophy of countless patients. However, it is not a perfect procedure. It can cause minor and controlled tissue injury to your vagina. Motivating your cells to regenerate to boost collagen and elastin production can trigger these side effects:
- Mild vaginal bleeding
- Pink to brown vaginal discharge
- Tenderness
- Itching
- Burning
- Swelling
- Tingling sensations during urination
- Discomfort in the vaginal and pelvic area
The good news is that these side effects are temporary, normal, and can be managed with medication and rest. The benefits far outweigh the risks, and typically the MonaLisa Touch before and after is like night and day.
Most women can tolerate the treatment, but don’t be afraid to be vocal about any discomfort you feel during the procedure. The clinic professional is there to meet your needs and will do everything they can to ensure your safety.
How Much Does MonaLisa Touch Cost?
One MonaLisa Touch Laser session in Canada ranges from $1,000 to $2,000, depending on the provider. Medical spa clinics offer bundled prices to help you save.
Call your clinic or book a consultation to learn more about their rates.
Is It Covered By OHIP?
Unfortunately, the MonaLisa Touch is not covered by OHIP. The government as well as most insurance providers consider it an “elective” treatment. This is something to keep in mind as you decide if it is the right choice for you.
Is It Right for Me?
The MonaLisa Touch is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. You should always consult a professional before undergoing it or any vaginal treatment.
You are most likely a good candidate if you fall under the following categories:
- Women experiencing menopause or in a post-menopausal period
- Women with removed ovaries
- Women with breast cancer on estrogen-blocking medications
- Women with hormonal issues
With that being said, women who fall under any of the following categories should likely consider alternative forms of treatment:
- Those with lesions on the cervix or vagina
- Those who are currently pregnant
- Those who have given birth in the last three months
- Those who have had a bladder prolapse
- Those who currently have a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
- Those who are receiving anticoagulants (blood thinners)
Get Relief At Harmony Med Spa
You don’t have to suffer any longer—the MonaLisa Touch can help.
Vaginal atrophy is one of the most uncomfortable parts of menopause, but you can expect to feel relief from its symptoms after your first treatment. For most women, three treatments will be enough to provide complete relief.
Book a consultation today with Harmony Med Spa if you’d like to learn more about the MonaLisa Touch Laser. Our medical experts are happy to answer any questions you may have about the procedure and its many benefits.