Vaginal reconstruction/rejuvenation: is there data to support improved sexual function? An update and review of the literature.

Vaginal rejuvenation is a term that is commonly utilized to describe surgical repair of the vaginal canal and introitus following childbirth and/or aging to treat sexual dysfunction related to vaginal relaxation. It is well known that vaginal prolapse may lead to sexual dysfunction and in many studies repair of prolapse improves this dysfunction. During the progression of prolapse, sexual dysfunction or decreased vaginal sensation due to vaginal wall laxity may be one of the early symptoms that women suffer prior to the prolapse itself becoming symptomatic. Surgical repair or reconstruction of this type of vaginal defect may be indicated if repair will improve symptoms of sexual dysfunction caused by vaginal wall laxity. In this review, we will examine the existing data and make conclusions regarding vaginal rejuvenation and its impact on female sexual function. Core tip: This is the first review of vaginal rejuvenation that shows improvement of sexual function. In this review, we covered the topic of relaxed vagina and sexual function, prolapse repair and sexual function, vaginal rejuvenation surgical techniques, and data to support vaginal rejuvenation techniques.