FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Issue
Even with the passage of time, many women still retain their youthful energy and enthusiasm, but post-menopausal changes can affect a woman’s quality of life in unexpected ways. Now, there is a gentle laser therapy that can help millions of women who are silently suffering.
What is the MonaLisa Touch™?
The MonaLisa Touch™ is a gentle laser therapy that delivers controlled energy to the vaginal wall tissue. It restores vaginal health by generating new collagen, elastin, and vascularization. The MonaLisa Touch™ was first available outside the US where thousands of patients have been treated worldwide.
Are there clinical trials on the MonaLisa Touch™?
Dr. Mickey Karram, Director of Fellowship Program on Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery at The Christ Hospital, Cincinnati, OH, and Dr. Eric Sokol, Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Stanford University Medical Center has completed a multisite study.
The trial assessed the use of CO2 fractional laser therapy on 30 women with vaginal health issues due to natural or induced menopause. All patients in the trial received MonaLisa Touch™ laser therapy. Results were:
- Overwhelmingly positive and immediate
- Highly statistically significant improvement in symptoms after the first treatment
- Escalation of progress with each subsequent treatment
- *Women in the study either experienced natural menopause or induced menopause as the result of hysterectomy or drug-induced suppression of ovarian function (chemotherapy, radiations, and anticancer drugs such as Tamoxifen).
Dr. Stefano Salvatore*, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vita- Salute San Raffaele University completed a study to assess the feasibility of fractional C02 laser in the treatment of 50 women suffering changes in their gynecologic health.
84% showed significant improvement in their physical and mental quality of life scores over baseline and were satisfied with the treatment.
In addition to the multisite study, there are currently eight published studies with six ongoing studies.
Where can I have this done?
The MonaLisa Touch™ is an in-office procedure that Dr. Michele Couri can perform right here at the Couri Center for Gynecology and Integrative Women’s Health, in Peoria, IL. Dr. Couri is the first physician in Central Illinois to offer this treatment.
Does the procedure hurt?
The procedure is virtually painless and requires no anesthesia. Some patients may experience some discomfort when the probe inserted the first time, but the actual treatment is not painful. Many patients report that it feels like a gentle vibration.
How long does MonaLisa Touch™ take?
Patients receive three treatments, spaced six weeks apart, which each take less than five minutes to perform.
For which patients is this treatment appropriate?
The MonaLisa Touch™ is appropriate for any female suffering from issues from a decline in estrogen, as well as those who are experiencing symptoms as a result of a hysterectomy or breast cancer treatments, for any woman with vaginal atrophy due to physiological hormone changes, which become inevitable over time. In particular, MonaLisa Touch™ is the ideal treatment for those who are looking for a less invasive procedure, compared to traditional surgical or pharmaceutical treatments. Remember, no one can advise you better about MonaLisa Touch™ and what is best for you to achieve your best results than your doctor.
When will I see results?
Most patients feel improvement after the very first treatment, although the procedure calls for three sessions spaced over an 18-week period.
How long does MonaLisa Touch™ therapy last?
Patients should expect to come back annually for their maintenance treatment to ensure results last over the course of time.*
*Your doctor will determine if follow up treatments are required.
What are my limitations following the procedure?
Patients should refrain from sexual activity for 2-3 days. Your doctor will determine a post-procedure regimen that is right for you.
Is this MonaLisa Touch™ safe for women with breast cancer?
Yes, the MonaLisa Touch™ therapy is particularly well suited for patients who cannot, or prefer not to receive estrogen therapy.
How much will the procedure cost?
Patients should schedule a consultation or call (309)692-6838 for additional information.
Will insurance cover MonaLisa Touch™?
There is no processing code for this procedure. We believe this is an investment in yourself and your quality of life. We gladly accept CareCredit.
Are there any risks?
There are some minimal risks. MonaLisa Touch™ is an outpatient treatment. Most women report temporary side effects, slight redness or swelling, some discomfort that usually disappears in one or two days.
The MonaLisa Touch™ Laser system has been FDA-cleared as safe for gynecologic use; however, it has not explicitly been FDA-approved for treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (vulvovaginal atrophy) or painful intercourse. MonaLisa Touch™ laser therapy is documented as an appropriate and efficacious treatment for vaginal symptoms due to menopause in the medical literature.
