What is the CO2RE intima? CO2RE Intima is a new, in-office, non-surgical treatment that uses laser energy to treat the symptoms women may be experiencing. CO2RE Intima is a medical laser that delivers controlled CO2 energy to the vaginal or vulva tissue – so cells make more collagen – improving skin tone, texture and appearance.
Has the CO2RE Intima been clinically studied? Recent results from a hospital-based trial, evaluating vaginal rejuvenation laser treatment on premenopausal women, shows positive results and a high patient satisfaction rating for cosmetic improvement and enhancement in sexual functioning1. A multi-site study is currently ongoing in the USA to evaluate the laser treatment on postmenopausal women, who are experiencing gynecologic wellness issues, and is being conducted by Dr. Martin Garcia, a board- certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist specialist in women’s gynecological health, endocrinology and infertility at Garcia OB/GYN Associates in Florida, Dr. Julene Samuels, a board-certified Plastic Surgeon and Associate Clinical Professor of Plastic Surgery at the University of Louisville in Kentucky and Dr. Lori Warren, an Obstretrician/Gynecologist and Associate Professor of Gynecology at the University of Louisville in Kentucky.
I have read about other vaginal treatment; why is CO2RE Intima better or different? CO2RE Intima is a module of the CO2RE device which treats all three areas of a women’s intimate needs (external, internal and introitus) and with sterile, single-use hand pieces, thereby assuring women of the results and hygiene they expect for treatments to their most intimate area. Additionally, CO2RE Intima utilizes a CO2 laser. CO2 lasers have been proven to remodel tissue with neoformation of collagen and elastic fibers in atrophic skin2. CO2 technology also provides physicians with the ability to treat both superficial and deep skin layers simultaneously and with the precision control they need over the intensity, pattern and depth of ablation, which is very important for treatments to this intimate area.
Where can I have the CO2RE Intima treatment done? CO2RE Intima is a quick, simple and safe procedure that can be done in your physician’s office. The procedure is typically performed by an obstetrician/gynecologist, plastic surgeon, dermatologist or laser specialist.
What does the procedure feel like? The in-office procedure is virtually painless, requires no anesthesia and typically takes around 15 minutes to treat both internally and externally.
Is the procedure safe? Are there risks to laser treatment, especially in the vaginal area? The CO2RE device has FDA clearance for a range of gynecological and genitourinary indications. CO2RE Intima offers solutions for a range of intimate aesthetic procedures. Treatments are safe and effective with mild to no discomfort, and with little downtime. As with all laser treatments, it is important to find an experienced healthcare professional whom you can trust.
How many treatments does it take? Patients receive three in-office treatments that are spaced ~3 weeks apart.
When will patients see results? Most CO2RE Intima patients feel and see improvement after the very first treatment, although the procedure calls for three treatments.
How long does it last? After the third treatment, patients should expect to come back annually for a maintenance treatment.
Are there any limitations after the procedure is done? Patients can return to normal activities after the procedure, but should refrain from sexual activity for 7 days. Your physician will advise you on a post-procedure regimen that is right for you.
Can CO2RE Intima treat the dryness, itching and pain associated with aging, menopause and reduced estrogen levels? CO2RE Intima can remodel vaginal connective tissue to restore vaginal health. Your physician will deliver gentle laser energy to the vaginal wall that stimulates a healing response and enhances moisture levels in the vaginal canal. This results in remodeling of the tissue fibers, thereby also restoring flexibility and shape. The procedure delivers both immediate and long-lasting relief in a painless, non-surgical, proven treatment.
Can CO2RE Intima be used for Vaginal Laxity? Vaginal Relaxation Syndrome? Loss of vaginal sensation and tone can be a side effect of vaginal childbirth and aging. Over time, the vaginal wall and the entrance to the vaginal canal (Introitus), both which contain collagen fibers, can stretch and lose vaginal tissue tone and elasticity. The CO2RE Intima laser treatment results in a remodeling of these tissue fibers, thereby restoring flexibility and shape.
Can CO2RE Intima be used for modifying the appearance of the vaginal area? The CO2RE Intima laser treatment can remodel labial and vulvar tissue fibers, restoring flexibility and shape. The treatment can also address dyschromia and skin pigmentation resulting in improved skin texture and tone.
For which women is the CO2RE Intima most suitable? CO2RE Intima is designed for women who want to relieve the signs of childbearing and aging in their vaginal area. This includes post child bearing and peri and menopausal women, women who desire enhancement in sexual functioning and a better sexual experience, women who seek vaginal cosmetic improvement and women who want to feel more confident about their feminine health.
Is this procedure safe for women with breast cancer? As with any medical condition, you should discuss possible risks of treatment with your physician.
Is the CO2RE Intima treatment right for me? The CO2RE Intima is appropriate for women, who are experiencing a change in their gynecologic wellness, or who want to improve their genital appearance. Speak to your physician to see if CO2RE Intima is right for you.
How much will the procedure cost? Patients should contact their healthcare professional for additional information on the procedure. Will the procedure be covered by insurance? The CO2RE Intima treatments are currently not covered by managed care as no processing code has been established.