Dr Shirin Lakhani debates whether the specialty has come far enough in its approach to vulvo-vaginal treatments
When I first began offering vulvo-vaginal treatments, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and radiofrequency, it was very clear that there was a lack of awareness and education around this area – both among patients and practitioners. Women simply didn’t know the options available to them, and those who did often felt embarrassed or ashamed to ask. There has long been a taboo surrounding intimate health. It was often referred to as ‘designer vagina’ implying the treatments were purely aimed at improving the aesthetic appearance of the vulva, rather than providing real life-changing functional improvements. Even in clinic settings, the topic wasn’t openly discussed. In recent years, we’ve seen real progress. The technology has advanced significantly, and we’re finally starting to have more open, honest conversations – both in clinic and in the media – about what women go through and what…
