Introduction & Background

Labiaplasty is a type of cosmetic surgery that involves the alteration or reduction of the labia minora (the inner vaginal lips) or labia majora (the outer vaginal lips). This surgery has gained increasing popularity in recent years due to a growing interest in cosmetic genital procedures, often fueled by societal beauty standards and personal comfort. While labiaplasty is most commonly associated with aesthetic concerns, some individuals undergo the procedure to alleviate discomfort caused by the natural shape and size of the labia.

The history of labiaplasty traces back to ancient civilizations, where some cultures performed genital modification for aesthetic, cultural, or functional reasons. However, modern labiaplasty emerged in the 1990s as a response to an increasing demand for genital cosmetic surgery. Since then, it has become one of the most commonly requested surgeries among women.

Labiaplasty can be done for both functional and cosmetic reasons, and in some cases, it may involve the reduction of excess tissue to resolve issues like chafing, irritation, or discomfort during physical activities like biking or sexual intercourse.

Causes of Labiaplasty

The need for labiaplasty can arise from various factors, including:

1. Aesthetic Concerns: Some individuals are unhappy with the appearance of their labia, either due to asymmetry, enlarged size, or other cosmetic reasons.
2. Physical Discomfort: Excessively large or elongated labia can cause physical discomfort, especially during activities like running, cycling, or sexual intercourse.
3. Congenital Factors: Some individuals are born with labial deformities or larger-than-normal labia that cause self-consciousness or discomfort.
4. Post-Pregnancy Changes: Pregnancy and childbirth can cause changes in the vaginal area, including the stretching or enlargement of the labia.
5. Aging: As a woman ages, the skin and tissues around the labia may lose elasticity, causing changes in their appearance and sometimes discomfort.

Indications of Labiaplasty

There are several reasons why a person may consider labiaplasty, including:

1. Discomfort During Physical Activity: When the labia cause irritation, friction, or chafing during daily activities like exercise or wearing tight clothing.
2. Pain During Sexual Intercourse: Some individuals experience pain during sex due to the size or shape of their labia, which may be alleviated through labiaplasty.
3. Self-Esteem Issues: People who feel self-conscious about the appearance of their genital area may seek labiaplasty to improve their confidence and body image.
4. Infection or Hygiene Issues: Overly large or asymmetrical labia may create hygiene challenges, leading to frequent irritation, infections, or discomfort.

Symptoms of Labiaplasty Candidates

The symptoms or conditions that might prompt a person to seek labiaplasty surgery include:

1. Pain or Discomfort: This can occur due to the size of the labia, especially during certain activities.
2. Visible Discomfort: Protruding or uneven labia may cause visible self-consciousness, leading to the desire for correction.
3. Chronic Infections: Unusual labial shapes or sizes may cause difficulty with cleaning and increase susceptibility to infections.
4. Emotional Distress: Feelings of embarrassment or discomfort about the appearance of the genital area can lead to psychological distress.

Prevention Strategies of Labiaplasty Needs

While labiaplasty is typically a personal choice, there are certain strategies that may prevent discomfort or issues requiring the surgery:

1. Proper Hygiene: Maintaining proper hygiene in the genital area helps prevent irritation or infections that may arise from larger labia.
2. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Avoiding tight-fitting clothes or underwear that may cause friction or irritation is key to preventing discomfort.
3. Exercise and Health Maintenance: Keeping the pelvic area healthy with proper exercise, such as Kegel exercises, may reduce unnecessary stretching and discomfort.
4. Consult a Specialist Early: If there are concerns regarding the appearance or function of the labia, consulting with a gynecologist or plastic surgeon early can help address any issues before they become problematic.

Myths and Facts About Labiaplasty

Myth 1: Labiaplasty is only for cosmetic purposes.
Fact: While many women choose labiaplasty for cosmetic reasons, it can also be performed for functional reasons, such as reducing pain or discomfort.

Myth 2: Labiaplasty can lead to reduced sexual pleasure.
Fact: Most women report that labiaplasty does not negatively affect their sexual pleasure and may even enhance it by eliminating discomfort.

Myth 3: Labiaplasty is unsafe and has a high risk of complications.
Fact: When performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon, labiaplasty is generally safe, with a low risk of complications.

Myth 4: All women should undergo labiaplasty to look more attractive.
Fact: The decision to undergo labiaplasty is highly individual. Not all women feel the need to alter their genital appearance, and beauty standards vary across cultures.

Treatments and Therapy for Labiaplasty

Medication-Based Treatments
In cases where discomfort is minimal, non-surgical treatments may be recommended, such as:

• Topical Steroid Creams: These can help reduce inflammation or irritation.
• Lubricants: For women experiencing dryness or pain during sexual activity, lubricants may provide relief.

Surgical Treatments
Labiaplasty itself is the main surgical treatment. The procedure can be performed using different techniques, including:

• Trim Method: The excess labial tissue is trimmed and the edges are sutured.
• Wedge Method: A wedge-shaped portion of tissue is removed from the labia, and the edges are sutured to create a natural contour.

The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, but general anesthesia may be used depending on the patient’s needs. Recovery time is usually a few weeks, during which the patient is advised to avoid physical activity and sexual intercourse.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
After surgery, some patients may benefit from pelvic floor exercises to help restore muscle tone and reduce recovery time.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Interventions
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tight clothing or activities that may irritate the area can help reduce the need for future procedures.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine
While there is no direct alternative to labiaplasty, some individuals may find relief through herbal treatments, acupuncture, or other alternative practices that aim to alleviate discomfort or improve circulation in the pelvic region.

Psychotherapy and Counseling
Psychotherapy may be beneficial for individuals who are undergoing labiaplasty for emotional or psychological reasons, such as body image concerns.

Immunizations and Vaccines
There are no specific vaccines for labiaplasty; however, vaccines like the HPV vaccine may help protect against certain sexually transmitted infections.

Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy is not a widely used treatment for labial issues, though ongoing research into regenerative medicine may provide new options in the future.

Gene Therapy
Similarly, gene therapy has not been applied to labiaplasty, but advances in genetic medicine may lead to more personalized and non-invasive treatments for issues like labial enlargement.

Top 20 FAQ on Labiaplasty

1. What is labiaplasty?
   • Answer: Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the reduction or alteration of the labia minora (inner lips) or labia majora (outer lips) of the vulva. It can be done for both cosmetic and functional reasons.
2. Why would someone need labiaplasty?
   • Answer: People may seek labiaplasty to address physical discomfort, self-esteem issues, or aesthetic concerns. It can help reduce irritation caused by enlarged labia, improve sexual comfort, or enhance the appearance of the genital area.
3. Is labiaplasty a common procedure?
   • Answer: Yes, labiaplasty has grown in popularity over the years. It is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic genital surgeries, with many women choosing it for both functional and aesthetic reasons.
4. Does labiaplasty hurt?
   • Answer: Labiaplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Post-surgery, there may be discomfort or swelling, but pain can generally be managed with prescribed medications.
5. How long is the recovery time for labiaplasty?
   • Answer: The initial recovery period usually lasts 1-2 weeks, during which you should avoid physical activity and sexual intercourse. Full recovery can take about 6-8 weeks, depending on individual healing.
6. Can labiaplasty affect sexual function?
   • Answer: Most women report that labiaplasty does not negatively affect sexual pleasure. In some cases, it may improve sexual comfort by eliminating labial pain or discomfort during intercourse.
7. Are there any risks involved in labiaplasty?
   • Answer: As with any surgery, labiaplasty carries risks such as infection, scarring, bleeding, and changes in sensation. However, when performed by a skilled surgeon, the risks are minimal.
8. How much does labiaplasty cost?
   • Answer: The cost of labiaplasty can vary depending on the surgeon, location, and whether the procedure is cosmetic or functional. On average, it can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
9. Will labiaplasty leave scars?
   • Answer: Some scarring is inevitable, but a skilled surgeon will place the incisions in a way that minimizes visible scarring. Most scars are small and fade over time.
10. How is labiaplasty performed?
    • Answer: Labiaplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon will remove excess tissue from the labia minora or majora, then suture the area. There are different techniques, such as the trim method or wedge method.
11. How do I know if labiaplasty is right for me?
    • Answer: If you experience discomfort or dissatisfaction with the appearance of your labia, consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon or gynecologist will help you determine if labiaplasty is a suitable option.
12. Can I undergo labiaplasty after childbirth?
    • Answer: Yes, many women choose to have labiaplasty after childbirth if they experience changes in their labia. However, it is often recommended to wait until you’re fully recovered and no longer plan on having more children.
13. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to labiaplasty?
    • Answer: While there are no direct non-surgical alternatives to labiaplasty, certain treatments like topical creams or hormone therapy may help reduce symptoms such as dryness or irritation in the genital area, though they won’t reduce labial size.
14. How soon after surgery can I resume normal activities?
    • Answer: Most women can return to work after about 1-2 weeks of recovery. However, you should avoid vigorous physical activity, including exercise and sexual intercourse, for at least 6 weeks after surgery.
15. Will my labia look completely symmetrical after surgery?
    • Answer: While labiaplasty can significantly improve symmetry, it may not always achieve perfect symmetry, as natural labia are not perfectly symmetrical to begin with. However, most women are satisfied with the aesthetic results.
16. What are the benefits of labiaplasty?
    • Answer: The benefits of labiaplasty include reduced discomfort during physical activities or sex, improved body image, and enhanced self-esteem. It can also address functional issues such as chronic irritation or difficulty with hygiene.
17. Can labiaplasty be done on the labia majora?
    • Answer: Yes, labiaplasty can also be performed on the labia majora (outer lips) if they are enlarged or asymmetrical, although this is less common than procedures on the labia minora.
18. Is labiaplasty covered by insurance?
    • Answer: Labiaplasty is typically considered a cosmetic procedure, so it is generally not covered by insurance. However, if the surgery is done for functional reasons (such as pain or discomfort), insurance may cover part of the cost.
19. How long do the results of labiaplasty last?
    • Answer: The results of labiaplasty are generally long-lasting, though changes in the body over time (such as aging, childbirth, or weight fluctuations) can alter the appearance of the labia. Most women enjoy permanent results.
20. Can I have children after undergoing labiaplasty?
    • Answer: Yes, labiaplasty does not affect your ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy. However, if you plan on having more children in the future, it’s recommended to wait until after childbirth, as pregnancy may affect the results of the surgery.

Conclusion

Labiaplasty is a highly personal decision, with individuals seeking it for a variety of reasons, from enhancing aesthetic appeal to improving physical comfort. While the procedure is generally safe, it is important for those considering labiaplasty to thoroughly consult with a qualified surgeon and carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits. This surgery can lead to improved confidence, comfort, and sexual well-being for many, but it is essential to approach it with realistic expectations and an understanding of the recovery process. As society’s perception of beauty continues to evolve, procedures like labiaplasty will remain an option for those seeking a change to their physical appearance or functionality.

The post What is Labiaplasty & how its getting done? appeared first on MyMedicPlus.

Like most things pertaining to a woman’s menstrual cycle, endometriosis is a highly misunderstood condition. Affecting an estimated 200 million women worldwide and 1 out of 10 women in the U.S., this condition is known for being highly uncomfortable, painful, and difficult to treat and diagnose.

While its origins are unknown and there’s no way of curing it, some hope that with scientific support marijuana could become a reliable source of pain relief.

Endometriosis is a condition where the endometrium — the tissue that coats the inside of the uterus — makes its way outside of the womb. This tissue can latch on to any of the female reproductive organs and even to the intestines, appendix and bowels. Since this tissue is affected by hormones and women’s menstrual cycles, it often causes inflammation and tremendous amounts of pain.

While there’s basically no scientific research out there that looks into the connection between marijuana and period pain, there’s a lot of anecdotal evidence that finds a correlation, with many well regarded companies releasing bath salts, suppositories, creams and more with the purpose of treating menstrual cramps.

Doctors aren’t likely to list medical marijuana products for people suffering from endometriosis, but that doesn’t stop women from trying out new things, especially when the condition that affects them is so debilitating.

According to Foria, a well regarded cannabis company with a focus on sexual health, certain cannabinoids could help manage some of the symptoms of endometriosis. There have been connections found between the use of cannabinoids and the prevention of proliferation of cells, the prevention of cell migration and the desensitization of nerves that transmit pain.

“Whether you’re already using cannabinoids for your endometriosis, or you’re considering an experiment with them, we highly recommend reading on to learn about the effects of THC & CBD on endometriosis,” explains the site. “One reason scientists are enthusiastic about these compounds is the recent discovery that the body’s natural endocannabinoid system is integral to the healthy functioning of the female reproductive tract.”

The current options for the treatment of endometriosis are only there for managing the condition, with there being no cure. They include pain medication and surgery, with the former often providing no effective relief and the latter acting as a temporary patch at best and as a life altering body change at worst.

The more you dive into endometriosis, the more you realize that there’s a big gap of knowledge for such a serious condition. Research needs to be conducted and this condition needs to be understood in order to address it properly. In the meantime, at least there’s cannabis.

The post What We Know About Cannabis And Endometriosis appeared first on MyMedicPlus.

According to the World Health Organisation, obesity represents a rapidly growing threat to the health of populations in an increasing number of countries. This is indeed a cause of concern. Obesity can lead to coronary heart disease, hypertension, stroke, certain types of cancer and non-insulin-dependent diabetes. Other health risks include gallbladder disease, dyslipidaemia, osteoarthritis and gout, and pulmonary diseases, including sleep apnoea.

Obese Women Less Likely To Use Oral Contraceptives: Study

Now a study says that it an also affect your sexual health. A study at the Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Medicale in Paris says that the ‘rate of unplanned pregnancies is four times higher among single obese women than normal weight women’. This is despite them being less likely to have been sexually active in the past year. Researchers also say that obese women are less likely to seek contraceptive advice or to use oral contraceptives. They noted that obese men have fewer sexual partners in a 12 month period. They are also more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction and develop sexually transmitted infections than normal weight men.

This is the first major study to investigate the impact of obesity on sexual activity and sexual health outcomes such as sexual satisfaction, unintended pregnancy and abortion. The study was published in the British Medical Journal.

Obese Men More Likely To Suffer From Erectile Dysfunction: Experts

For the purpose of the study, researchers undertook a survey of sexual behaviours among 12,364 French men and women between the ages of 18 to 69 years. Among the participants 3,651 women and 2,725 men were of normal weight. The other 1,010 women and 1,488 men were overweight. The rest 411 women and 350 men were obese. Researchers saw that obese women were ‘30 per cent less likely to have had a sexual partner in the last 12 months. Obese men were 70 per cent less likely to have had more than one sexual partner in the same period and were two and half times more likely to experience erectile dysfunction’.

However, sexual dysfunction did not have a link with BMI among women. Researchers also noted that obese women under 30 were less likely to seek contraceptive advice or use oral contraceptives. They were also more likely to report an unintended pregnancy. Obese men under 30 were far more likely to have had a sexually transmitted infection. Obese women were also five times more likely to have met their partner on the Internet. They were more likely to have an obese partner, and less likely to view sex as important for personal life balance.

Looking at the results of the survey, researchers concluded that ‘the scale of the problem and the magnitude of the effects (particularly the fourfold increase in risk of unintended pregnancy among obese women) warrants focused attention. In terms of targeting advice and care, a considerable proportion of the population is obese, is easily identified as such, as is at increased risk in terms of poorer sexual health status’.

Lose Weight Now

Now you have all the more reason to lose weight. It will help you reduce your risk of many health complications. It will also give a boost to your sexual health. Start exercising and leading an active life. Eat well-balanced and nutritional meals to keep obesity at bay. Have more of fruits and vegetables. Get regular check-ups done to rule out any medical reason behind your weight gain. Timely treatment of any such condition will go a long way in ensuring a healthy and fit life.

The post Lose weight now: Obesity is bad for sexual health appeared first on MyMedicPlus.

She is one of about 20 children aged 18 and under living in Wales with the disease.

Jessica – not her real name – told BBC Wales Live she wept as jokes about the condition went unchallenged.

Campaigners said there should be a new education drive about HIV and how medicine has revolutionised treatments.

Jessica said myths about the disease persist – that touching or sharing a cup or even a hat can pass on the virus, and people with HIV will die of AIDS.

But drugs introduced more than 20 years ago mean those living with HIV can control the infection so effectively it is undetectable and cannot be passed on to another person, even through sexual activity.

Antiviral treatments used since 1996 also mean those with the virus will enjoy the same life expectancy as those without the condition.

• ‘Just a little illness’
• ‘Why Gareth Thomas’ example is important’
• HIV – The facts

Jessica said she sat through lessons in school where incorrect information was shared with other pupils and jokes about the illness were allowed.

“I was sat at the back of that classroom and I cried my eyes out. But I had to hide it at the same time, because these were people that I wanted to potentially tell,” she said.

“I’ve never been so shocked and ashamed of myself in my entire life – I shouldn’t have been upset in that way.”

Consultant pediatrician Dr Jennifer Evans said this was not a surprise.

“If people have a serious diagnosis of cancer there’s huge amount of sympathy – this diagnosis is still met with a lot of suspicion,” she said.

“That transmits itself into feeling bad about yourself.”

Jessica agreed: “If there was less stigma, I would 100% be the person out there talking to all my friends.

“I feel like those conversations would’ve been a lot easier if in school it was educated properly.”

Abi Carter, an participation officer with the charity Chiva – Children’s HIV Association – said the lack of education about the disease could hold people back.

“We need another public information campaign about HIV, which is updated with all the revolutions that have happened in medicine over the last 20 to 30 years. There’s a lot of misinformed people out there.

“It’s time that we really busted some of these myths.”

A Welsh Government official said the new education curriculum included guidance on learning how to find information from trusted sources to inform decisions and “challenging harmful social influences”, including stigma.

“We recognise how HIV has changed in terms of risk and disease profile in the last decade and think it is important that teachers should have the most up-to-date information on HIV available to them.”

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The post HIV treatment is one of the ‘greatest medical trajectories of all time’ — but still remains one of the most ­demonised of illnesses appeared first on MyMedicPlus.

Welcome to AP Bio, Teen Vogue’s guide to what you need to know about sex and your body before you head to college. Whether it’s getting tested, taking care of a yeast infection, or opting out of so-called hookup culture all together, we’ve got you covered.

Walking into Planned Parenthood’s Margaret Sanger Center in New York to get an STI and HIV test, I felt nervous. You’d think I’d know the deal by now — after all, I’ve gotten them before, and I’m someone who regularly advocates on this very website for others to know their status and take preventative measures against STIs and HIV. In my personal life, I’ve encouraged friends to go get tested (no, it won’t hurt!), and balked when previous partners told me it wasn’t part of their regular health routine (why not?). Still, as I stepped into the waiting room to be tested for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV, I was scared — and that was the whole point.

If I get nervous or don’t know what to expect despite my experience and advocacy around STI and HIV testing, someone who has never gone through this process before probably feels those nerves much more intensely. Like I was, you might be wondering what exactly getting an STI and HIV test entails, particularly whether or not it hurts. So, let’s walk through it step by step.

I set up my testing appointment online via Planned Parenthood’s scheduling portal, which isn’t available for every health center but the option is expanding to more places. Of course, there are many place to get an STI test — including your primary care physician or other local health centers — so your experience might be different than mine depending on where you go. But, if you do head to a Planned Parenthood where the online scheduling via DocASAP is available, it’s fairly easy. I chose the health center that was most convenient for me, and filled out a bunch of personal information about me, my health, and my insurance plan. (You can still visit Planned Parenthood if you don’t have insurance! Visit your clinic’s website for more information on how they charge.) There were only two snags in the process. It took so long to register for the scheduling platform that the appointment time I wanted was taken by the time I was done, and I was only given male and female as gender identification options. According to Planned Parenthood, the options are due to the scheduling platform DocASAP (which isn’t specific to Planned Parenthood). Currently, Planned Parenthood said it is working with DocASAP to provide more inclusive language.

Once I was registered and my appointment was set, I waited about a month before it was time to go for my screening (if you have symptoms, you definitely should not wait this long). On the morning of my appointment, I arrived a few minutes early and checked in at the front desk of the clinic. I was asked for information about my insurance, marital status, race, and income level. Then I sat in a pleasant and clean waiting room for what seemed like forever because I had to pee SO BAD.

Here is where I made my first mistake: I thought my STI screening would include a urine test, so I drank a ton of water and rolled up to the clinic with a very full bladder. First I sat smugly, thinking this wouldn’t be one of the many times a doctor has asked me to pee in a cup and I couldn’t even squeeze out a drop. But as the minutes ticked by, my smugness wore off. The clinic was running a little behind that morning, so I sat in the waiting room for quite a while, squirming. When I was finally called in to the testing room, though, I realized my pent-up pee was for not — urine testing was not in my future.

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