Hyaluronic Acid Fillers for Vaginal Augmentation: Efficacy and Safety

Abstract

BackgroundVaginal hyaluronic acid (HA) filler is a minimally invasive option primarily aimed at functional improvement (sexual function and pelvic muscle performance), with aesthetic effects considered secondary. The procedure aims to address changes in the female genitalia that may occur due to aging, childbirth, or other factors. This review aims to provide a detailed overview of the techniques involved, anatomical considerations, safety profiles, and clinical outcomes associated with vaginal filler injections.MethodsIn this study, 42 women (24 premenopausal, 18 postmenopausal) underwent posterior vaginal wall augmentation using cross-linked hyaluronic acid, volume ranging from 3-5 cc (e.p.t.q.(R) Lidocaine S 300 and e.p.t.q.(R) eve X, JETEMA Co., Ltd. Korea), which has an expected reabsorption period of approximately 9-12 months. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 6, and 12 months.Female sexual function was evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which measures six domains: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. Pelvic floor muscle strength and function were objectively assessed using the Peritron perineometer, which records resting pressure, peak pressure, average pressure, and contraction duration.MethodsIn this study, 42 women (24 premenopausal, 18 postmenopausal) underwent posterior vaginal wall augmentation using cross-linked hyaluronic acid, volume ranging from 3-5 cc (e.p.t.q.(R) Lidocaine S 300 and e.p.t.q.(R) eve X, JETEMA Co., Ltd. Korea), which has an expected reabsorption period of approximately 9-12 months. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 6, and 12 months.Female sexual function was evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), which measures six domains: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. Pelvic floor muscle strength and function were objectively assessed using the Peritron perineometer, which records resting pressure, peak pressure, average pressure, and contraction duration.ResultsAll 42 participants completed the 12 month follow-up, with improvements in every FSFI domain and Peritron parameter observed at 6 months and maintained through 12 months. Participant satisfaction increased from 71% at 6 months to 81% at 12 months, and no participants reported dissatisfaction at any time point.ConclusionThis study demonstrates the potential of vaginal filler treatment to positively impact female sexual well-being. Both subjective reports of satisfaction and objective physiological measures indicate improvements following the procedure.Level of Evidence VThis journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266.