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Alternatives to Labiaplasty

Some women may feel self-conscious about the appearance of their vaginas or have some sort of physical problem that causes a loss of sensitivity or pain during sexual intercourse. A labiaplasty can correct vaginal dysfunctions and unpleasant appearances, but as with any cosmetic surgery, there are risks involved, and the procedures can be costly.

  1. Exercises

    • Vaginal exercises, such as Kegels, can help you learn to control your vaginal muscles and enable you to relax and tighten your vagina during sexual intercourse, which may help relieve discomfort and pain. Pelvic exercises also bring increased blood flow to the vagina, which can help increase sensitivity and reduce your need for a labiaplasty. To learn to control your vaginal muscles, tighten your pelvic muscles as if you were stopping the flow of urine. It may be helpful to lie down the first few times you try the exercises and insert a clean finger into your vagina so that you can feel your muscles tightening and relaxing to help you learn the proper technique. Do not practice Kegel exercises by actually starting and stopping urine flow, as this can lead to bladder problems.

      Start with about 25 contractions at a time three different times each day. Gradually build up to more contractions over the course of several weeks. Do fewer repetitions if you find that your pelvic muscles feel painful. Some soreness is common during the first few weeks, but you should not feel extreme discomfort. Continue doing Kegel exercises on a daily basis to maintain the positive benefits.

    Therapy

    • Psychological therapy, including sexual therapy, provides an alternative to labiaplasty for many women who feel uncomfortable or insecure about the appearance of their vaginas. Ask your doctor for a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist who may be able to help you address the problem. Some women who experience pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse can benefit from therapy as well. While uncomfortable or painful intercourse can be the result of a physical problem, some women either consciously or unconsciously find that they may tighten their vaginal muscles before or during intercourse, causing discomfort. Your therapist can help you learn relaxation techniques to ease anxiety and help you address and overcome any psychological factors that may be contributing to dissatisfaction with your vaginal appearance.

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