Understanding Vaginal Relaxation: Regaining Confidence and Comfort

Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome (VRS) or vaginal laxity, is a condition characterized by a loss of tightness and tone in the vaginal canal. This loss of elasticity can result in a feeling of looseness or enlargement in the vaginal area. While it is a common concern, particularly among women who have given birth, it’s essential to note that vaginal laxity is not a medically recognized syndrome, but rather a term used to describe a set of symptoms related to vaginal looseness.

The symptoms of vaginal laxity may include sensation of vaginal looseness or enlargement, decreased sexual satisfaction or sensation during intercourse, urinary incontinence or difficulties controlling urination and also difficulty retaining tampons or other vaginal inserts.

What are the factors of VRS and how can we treat it?

Several factors that can contribute to VRS are childbirth, aging, hormonal changes, obesity and also genetics. The process of vaginal childbirth involves stretching and distension of the vaginal tissues to accommodate the passage of the baby’s head. In some cases, particularly after multiple or difficult deliveries, the vaginal tissues may not fully return to their pre-pregnancy state, leading to laxity. As women age, the collagen and elastin fibers in the vaginal tissues may naturally degrade, resulting in decreased tone and elasticity. This can contribute to vaginal laxity over time. Furthermore, hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during menopause or breastfeeding, can affect vaginal tissue health. Estrogen, in particular, plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of the vaginal walls. Reduced estrogen levels can lead to thinning and weakening of the vaginal tissues, contributing to laxity. Other than that, excess weight can put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles and vaginal tissues, potentially leading to laxity over time. Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to laxity in the vaginal tissues, regardless of other factors.

Treatment options for VRS vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s symptoms. One of the common approaches, which is non-surgical, is pelvic floor exercises. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles through exercises can improve vaginal tone and support. The exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles used to control urination. Vaginal rejuvenation procedures are another non-surgical techniques, such as laser therapy or radiofrequency treatment can stimulate collagen production in the vaginal tissues, leading to tightening and increased elasticity. Apart from that, some have chosen vaginal tightening devices, where certain devices, such as those utilizing controlled thermal energy or mechanical stimulation, can be inserted into the vagina to promote tissue tightening. For menopausal women experiencing vaginal laxity due to hormonal changes, hormone therapy may be recommended to improve tissue health and elasticity. Last but not least, in cases of severe vaginal laxity that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical interventions such as vaginoplasty or labiaplasty may be considered. Although some of the treatments mentioned, including surgical methods are frequently employed for vaginal laxity, they come with inherent risks and may not be suitable for everyone. This is why exploring natural herbs, such as Manjakani and Kacip Fatimah, as an alternative option for promoting vaginal health can be appealing to many individuals. This is mainly due to natural herbs tend to offer several potential advantages, such as gentle and non-invasive, fewer side effects, affordability and accessibility.

It’s essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of VRS to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and personalized treatment recommendations as treatment options can vary based on the underlying causes and individual preferences. Through this blog post, we hope to share some general information about VRS with everyone, especially women, so as to understand more about themselves.