Vaginal laxity: a poorly understood quality of life problem; a survey of physician members of the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA).

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: Our goal was to assess how physician members of the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) perceive and manage vaginal laxity.
METHODS: An Internet-based survey was circulated targeting physician members of IUGA that consisted of 27 questions and was designed to query attitudes and practices with respect to vaginal laxity.
RESULTS: Five hundred and sixty-three of the 2,235 surveys were completed (25% response rate). Most respondents (65% male and 35 % female) listed urogynecology as their specialty. The geographical distribution was Europe (39%), North America (23%), Asia (15%), South America (14%), Australia (6%), and Africa (3%). Eighty-three percent described laxity as underreported by their patients. The majority considered laxity a bothersome condition to patients that impacts relationship happiness and sexual function. The introitus was listed most often as being responsible for these symptoms. Whereas only 54% offered surgical treatment, surgery was cited as more effective than Kegel exercises or physical therapy. North Americans were more likely to prefer and perform surgical treatment for this problem.
CONCLUSION: Vaginal laxity is common and may impact sexual function and quality of life. Expanding our knowledge regarding pathophysiology and treatment would be of benefit to these patients.