Vaginal rejuvenation with lasers and radiofrequency: the FDA warning and what studies show

Some med spas offer laser or radiofrequency treatments to the vagina, sold as "rejuvenation," tightening or relief from menopause symptoms. The FDA warned in July 2018 that such energy-based devices may be associated with serious adverse events, and that their safety and effectiveness for these conditions had not been established.¹

Here is what that warning says, what a 2021 review and a 2026 meta-analysis found, and what to ask. Whether to have this treatment is for you and a clinician.

The FDA's warning

On 30 July 2018 the FDA warned patients and providers that using energy-based devices to perform vaginal "rejuvenation," cosmetic vaginal procedures or non-surgical vaginal procedures to treat symptoms related to menopause, urinary incontinence or sexual function may be associated with serious adverse events. It said the safety and effectiveness of energy-based devices for these conditions had not been established.¹ That is the warning as the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) reports it. Ask your provider whether anything has changed for the device they plan to use.

What the studies found

A 2021 systematic review identified 59 studies of 3,609 women treated with radiofrequency or fractional ablative laser. The studies reported improvement in symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause or vulvovaginal atrophy, and in sexual function, along with high patient satisfaction and minor adverse events, including pain, swelling or vaginal discharge. The authors say it is still unclear which conditions can be treated, whether maintenance treatment is needed and what the long-term safety concerns are.²

A 2026 meta-analysis took a tighter approach. It pooled 9 trials with a sham or placebo comparison, with 610 participants, all in postmenopausal women with sexual dysfunction or painful intercourse. Six trials studied a CO2 laser, three radiofrequency, one an erbium laser and one a hybrid laser. The data suggest the treatments may be beneficial, but results varied a lot between trials, and the authors say that means considerable uncertainty and caution in interpreting the data.³

What med spas offer

Three in ten med spas we list offer hormone or intimate health services: 2,182 of 7,475. That doesn't say which treatments, so ask what is on offer and what it is based on.⁴ Which licensed professionals may perform a procedure like this depends on your state. See our guide to who may inject.

Here is what to bring to a consultation.

Cost

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Common questions