MonaLisa Touch Vaginal Laser Specialist

Karen S. Kornreich, M.D. Our Services MonaLisa Touch Vaginal Laser

Karen S. Kornreich, M.D.

Gynecologist located in Beverly Hills, CA

The FDA-approved MonaLisa Touch® vaginal CO2 laser provides non-hormonal relief from uncomfortable vaginal symptoms caused by a decline in estrogen, whether related to menopause, hysterectomy, childbirth and breastfeeding, or cancer chemotherapy treatment. With more than two decades of experience in women's healthcare, Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and Certified Menopause Clinician, Dr. Karen S. Kornreich, located in Beverly Hills, California, is an expert in treating symptoms of vaginal atrophy with the FDA-approved MonaLisa Touch vaginal CO2 laser.

MonaLisa Touch Vaginal CO2 Laser Q & A

What is vaginal atrophy?

Vaginal atrophy is the thinning of the vaginal tissues due to a lack of estrogen. This is one of the most common symptoms of menopause. However, it can also occur as a result of a hysterectomy, childbirth and breastfeeding, or cancer chemotherapy treatment. Whatever the cause, vaginal atrophy can make intercourse extremely difficult and painful. Other symptoms of vaginal atrophy may include: vaginal burning and itching, frequent bladder infections, urinary frequency, urinary leakage and/or incontinence.

What is the MonaLisa Touch?

The MonaLisa Touch is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved fractional CO2 vaginal laser treatment that uses light energy to restore atrophied vaginal tissue. During a five minute procedure, a slender wand is inserted into the vaginal canal. Over the course of three treatments approximately 6 weeks apart, this therapeutic modality increases vaginal blood circulation and activates collagen and elastin production. This procedure causes the tissues to become more elastic and allows the vagina to produce more natural body lubrication for sexual intercourse as well as overall comfort. From this procedure, vaginal tissues thicken, become more flexible and regain their original tone, texture, and lubrication. This results in making sexual intercourse more comfortable and pleasurable, as well as, reducing or eliminating vaginal itching and burning, frequent urinary tract infections, urinary incontinence and vaginal dryness. This treatment is well tolerated, pain free and does not require anesthesia. Improvement is typically experienced shortly after the first treatment, however, maximal benefits may not be recognized until up to two months after the third treatment. These benefits may last up to one year at which time an annual touch up treatment is performed.

Is treatment painful?

No! The MonaLisa Touch is a quick 5 minute painless and well-tolerated office procedure that does not require any anesthesia. Some women may experience minimal, temporary localized discomfort which resolves quickly on its own.

How long do results last?

For optimal results, three treatments are recommended, scheduled approximately 6 weeks apart. Benefits may last a full year at which time a single “touch-up” treatment is recommended to maintain optimal vaginal health.

Is there any downtime involved?

There is minimal downtime and one should refrain from sexual activity and vigorous exercise for two to three days following treatment.

Are there side effects with MonaLisa Touch?

Less than 1% of patients experience any side effects which may include irritation from the vaginal probe, mild uterine cramping or minimal vaginal spotting. The procedure is minimally invasive and requires no anesthesia. The MonaLisa Touch has a better than 70 to 90% satisfaction rating among treated women who have utilized this procedure.