What is Vaginal Atrophy & Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)?
Vaginal atrophy — medically referred to as atrophic vaginitis or genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) — is a common condition characterized by the thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls. This occurs due to a decline in natural estrogen levels, most frequently brought on by perimenopause, menopause, postmenopause, breastfeeding, or specific medical treatments such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation.
At Miami Women’s Center, we provide comprehensive care for vaginal atrophy, including the state-of-the-art MonaLisa Touch® vaginal laser treatment, to safely revitalize delicate tissues and restore your natural comfort.
Request an AppointmentComprehensive Management Options
Every woman experiences the hormonal transition differently. We provide a full spectrum of therapeutic care paths to treat vaginal atrophy based on your medical history and lifestyle preferences:
- Advanced MonaLisa Touch® fractional laser therapy: Utilizing fractional CO2 laser energy to stimulate deep cellular regeneration, re-establishing a thick, robust, and naturally lubricated vaginal lining without systemic medical side effects.
- Non-hormonal lubricants & systemic moisturizers: High-quality, clinical-grade hyaluronic acid vaginal moisturizers and pH-balanced lubricants to manage daily friction and protect the vaginal ecosystem.
- Localized low-dose estrogen therapies: For suitable candidates who prefer a conventional approach, targeted low-dose vaginal creams, tablets, or rings that work directly on pelvic tissues without altering systemic hormone levels — see our BHRT page for systemic options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vaginal Atrophy & MonaLisa Touch®
MonaLisa Touch at Miami Women’s Center
What are the main symptoms of vaginal atrophy?
Symptoms can include persistent vaginal dryness, burning, or itching; pain during sexual intercourse; light bleeding after sexual activity; decreased natural lubrication during arousal; and urinary urgency, painful urination, or recurrent UTIs.
What is the MonaLisa Touch® vaginal laser treatment?
MonaLisa Touch® is an advanced, non-surgical treatment that uses a specialized fractional CO2 laser to deliver controlled, microscopic pulses of light energy to the vaginal wall mucosa, stimulating new collagen, elastin, and micro-capillaries to restore thickness, hydration, and elasticity.
How is the MonaLisa Touch® procedure performed, and does it hurt?
It’s a quick, in-office procedure taking less than 10 minutes, similar to a routine pelvic exam. A mild numbing cream may be applied for comfort, and most patients report only a light vibration or minor prickling sensation from the laser probe.
How many sessions are required, and what is the recovery time?
A standard course consists of three treatments spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Many patients notice improvement after the first session, though the full series achieves optimal results. Recovery is immediate, with patients advised to avoid intercourse, douching, tampons, or strenuous baths for three days after each treatment. An annual touch-up is typically recommended to maintain results.
Who is an ideal candidate for MonaLisa Touch® laser therapy?
MonaLisa Touch® is an excellent option for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with GSM symptoms, especially those who cannot use or prefer to avoid estrogen therapy — including breast cancer survivors, patients undergoing active oncological treatment, women with a history of blood clots or cardiovascular disease, and postpartum mothers experiencing transient estrogen drops while breastfeeding.
Is MonaLisa Touch a one-time treatment or ongoing therapy?
The initial course is three sessions, and most patients benefit from an annual maintenance session afterward to preserve the tissue improvements over time.
Can I combine MonaLisa Touch with other menopause treatments?
Yes, it’s often combined with systemic menopause management or BHRT for patients who want relief from both systemic symptoms and localized vaginal discomfort.