What is ThermiVa?

ThermiVa is non-surgical radio frequency (RF) treatment used to tighten and rejuvenate the vagina, this includes both the outer labia and inner vaginal canal.

Throughout life, natural processes such as childbirth and aging can cause changes to the vaginal canal which can laxity; As well this, menopause can also cause physical and functional changes such as excessive dryness and thinning of the vaginal walls.

ThermiVa not only restores the appearance and feel of the vagina, but also with problems such as urinary or stress incontinence and lack of sexual pleasure due to laxity in the vaginal canal.

ThermiVa can be used to treat:

• Changes in the elasticity of the vaginal canal
• Damage to the pelvic floor
• The strength of the mucosal tone of the vaginal wall
• Diminished sexual satisfaction
• Orgasmic dysfunction
• Dyspareunia (pain during sex)
• Reduced lubrication or vaginal dryness
• Stress/urinary incontinence

How does it work?

ThermiVa uses temperature-controlled radiofrequency to stimulate collagen production, which in turn, improves the vaginal laxity.

During the treatment a small S-shaped hand piece is inserted into the vaginal canal. It has a little metal square at the end of the tip which is ‘electrode’ or active tip. This will gently heat the tissue through emission of radiofrequency energy.

The heat is monitored to stay with certain safe and comfortable parameters. The heat causes the collagen fibres to contract and sparks a process of collagen renewal. The result is that the tissue in the vaginal canal is tightened and ultimately restored. Clients had described it as feeling warm but nothing more.

The same hand piece can also be used externally to immediately remodel the labia.

The collagen is heated to temperatures between 42-47°C which promotes 3 different effects:

• Instantaneous contraction of collagen
• Immediate collagen remodelling and elasticity
• Long-term stimulation of production of new collagen

How long does it take?

This treatment requires no preparation and is a very quick, taking up to 30 minutes.

Is it safe for everyone- contraindications?

ThermiVa is suitable for the vast majority of women but the procedure should not be used if:

• You are pregnant
• If you have an active sexually transmitted disease
• If you are suffering from a urinary tract infection
• If you have any cardiac devices such as a pacemaker
• If you suffer stage 2 pelvic organ prolapse or higher
• If you have had any form of recent vaginal surgery.

What is the recovery time?

There is no downtime required, and there is no pain associated with the treatment. Clients can continue regular activity and sexual function on the same day.

What are the side effects?

Some women may experience warmth and redness to the skin which usually diminishes within an hour. Some may also experience minor swelling immediately after the treatment which should subside within a few hours to a day.

How much does it cost?

The cost of treatment will be determined during a private consultation, however you should expect to pay between £1500-£3500.

Depending on the laxity up to three treatments may be required over the space of 3 months, with maintenance treatments recommended every 12-18 months.

Who should do this procedure?

Only qualified medical practitioners (doctors or nurses) who have been trained in the use of this device should carry out this procedure.

The results – How effective is it?

ThermiVa is a relatively new treatment but 55,000 women have used the treatment. One  study showed 93% of patients experienced a lifting of tissue in the area (improved appearance). Other studies have reported that women are satisfied with the procedure and have seen improvements in stress/urinary incontinence and in their sex lives with less pain experienced during sex and less vaginal dryness.

Thermiva has been approved by the FDA for external dermatological use but has not yet been approved for internal use. As yet, no laser or radiofrequency treatments have been approved by the FDA for use in vaginal rejuvenation.

Despite this some studies show they can be quite effective and have a high satisfaction rate with patients.

Who provides this treatment:

London-based Consultant Gynaecologist, Mr Onsy Morris and Professor Isaac Manyonda. You can find out more about them and book here:

http://harleystreetemporium.com/doctors/mr-onsy-morris-gynaecologist/

and

http://harleystreetemporium.com/doctors/professor-isaac-manyonda-gynaecologist-menopause/