FemTouch: What You Need to Know
Pros & cons
How much it costs
What to expect
How soon you see results
Fast facts
FemTouch is a laser procedure used to treat a range of vaginal conditions, including bladder leakage, recurrent infections, and pain during intercourse. It’s an option for women who are bothered by these conditions but aren’t interested in surgery or hormone replacement therapy—the more conventional solutions to such vaginal conditions. It’s especially beneficial for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women experiencing dryness, irritation, and incontinence.
FemTouch is performed with an AcuPulse CO2 fractional laser—an ablative laser that works on and below the surface of the vaginal skin, stimulating new collagen production.
According to the manufacturer, FemTouch laser thickens vaginal wall tissues, induces healthy cell growth, and improves vaginal lubrication. It can also help restore healthy bacteria levels within the vagina, to prevent yeast overgrowth and recurrent urinary tract infections.
FemTouch has been FDA-cleared as safe to use for gynecological purposes, but it is not specifically approved for “vaginal rejuvenation”—that is, treating symptoms related to menopause, urinary incontinence, or sexual function. According to the FDA, “The safety and effectiveness of energy-based devices for treatment of these conditions has not been established.” However, doctors commonly use FemTouch (and similar devices) off label to treat vaginal dryness and atrophy, since the medical literature supports their safety and effectiveness.
“The laser and energy vaginal devices in question have not been FDA-approved for the claims that are frequently made about them, but they work well anecdotally and in clinical practice,” explains New York City–based plastic surgeon and RealSelf Chief Medical Editor Dr. Lara Devgan.
ProsÂ
- It’s a short, two- to five-minute procedure.
- The process is painless, with manageable post-treatment symptoms.
- There’s no downtime associated with FemTouch treatment.
ConsÂ
- You’ll need multiple sessions to achieve an optimal result.
- You’ll need touch-up sessions to maintain results long-term.
- In untrained hands, the device poses a small risk of bleeding, infection, and burns.
- Average Cost:
- $1,325
- Range:
- $400 - $2,800
You could need up to four initial treatments, and perhaps additional maintenance sessions later on.
FemTouch is not covered by insurance, even if it’s performed for a medical reason, such as infection prevention; 86% of RealSelf members say it’s worth the out-of-pocket cost.
Before treatment, your doctor will examine you, review your medical history, and tell you about any preparations you may need to make beforehand. For example, Dr. Maki Goskowicz, a dermatologist in San Diego, notes in a RealSelf Q&A, “Patients with a history of herpes are advised to start an antiviral, such as Acyclovir or Valtrex, prophylactically, prior to the procedure.” You must be free from any and all infections prior to treatment.
Performed in a doctor’s office, FemTouch takes about five minutes and doesn’t require sedation or anesthesia. Once you’re reclined on the exam table with feet in stirrups, the doctor will insert a small probe into or around your vagina, depending on your treatment goals. (For instance, laxity calls for an external treatment; recurrent infections or dryness, internal.) You’ll feel a warm, vibrating sensation, but it won’t hurt.
You’ll likely notice an improvement after your first session, but most women need two to four treatments, spaced four to six weeks apart, for optimal results.Â
You can go back to work or school the same day, with minimal post-procedure discomfort.
Dr. Sacha Obaid, a plastic surgeon in Southlake, Texas, describes in a RealSelf Q&A what patients can expect after FemTouch: “Patients can experience a light discharge and possible burning sensation for a couple of days after treatment. Many of our patients say it is minimal discomfort, compared to the results they experience.”Â
Your doctor may prescribe a hydrating gel, to prevent excessive itchiness and dryness after treatment. You’ll need to avoid sexual intercourse for the first three days, since it will irritate the vaginal lining. Your physician may also advise against the use of tampons, hot tubs, and hot baths for a number of days following treatment.
Some women have reported that external FemTouch treatment left dark marks on their labial skin. Doctors say that this pigmentation generally fades within two weeks.
The effects of FemTouch on the vaginal walls are permanent, but it’s not a forever fix. As the area continues to age, you may need touch-up treatments, usually every one to three years, to maintain your initial results.
Updated February 21, 2024