INTRODUCTION
Research shows that only about 14% of women ever talk to any of their physicians about their sexual health yet 30-50% of women (listed in literature) are bothered by symptoms of sexual dysfunction amidst other gynecological problems. As downplayed as sexual health is, it is important to recognize the positive effect that optimum sexual health has on the strength of marriages and relationships and the resultant effect on society. Dr. Kristina Sule, a consultant Obstetrician and Cosmetic Gynecologist at Allora Medical Practice introduces for the first time to the Kenyan market the O Shot- a procedure used to treat sexual dysfunction amongst other conditions.
- What is the O Shot
The O Shot procedure is a very specific method of using PRP (blood derived factors) to treat sexual dysfunction in women, urinary incontinence and a variety of gynecological conditions. The O Shot is a patented and trademarked procedure developed by Dr. Charles Runels in the USA and official providers of this procedure are certified by the Cellular Medicine Association and listed on the O shot website.
- What is Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP)
PRP is a novel and increasingly popular form of regenerative medicine that uses the body’s natural healing capability. PRP is a blood derivative. Plasma is the liquid portion of whole blood and platelets are cells responsible for the clotting of blood and production of other necessary growth factors. Platelets not only promote healing but also attract stem cells to the target site through the process of new blood vessel formation and cell regeneration. The amount of platelets and growth factors in PRP in 3-5 greater than that of normal plasma. PRP use has greatly increased in the last 10 years mainly in the field of sports medicine and orthopedics but also in cardiovascular surgery, maxillofacial surgery, medical aesthetics, urology and now with a lot of interest, in Obstetrics and Gynecology, where PRP is not only used for O Shot but for Cesarean Section and episiotomy wound healing, Ovarian rejuvenation in infertility, repeated implantation failure and inadequate or thin endometrium in IVF, amongst other uses.
- How does an O Shot work
PRP therapy delivers platelets which contain growth factors, proteins, mediators, cytokines and chemokines that contribute to regeneration and healing to the site of interest. These substances cause blood vessel formation and remodeling, activation of stem cells, cell proliferation, coagulation, cell differentiation, cell movement and maturation, removal of infectious agents and cell debris amongst other processes. The plasma portion of PRP causes healing of connective tissues. All these substances work in conjunction with each other to produce healing of various vulvovaginal conditions and regeneration of tissue. New blood vessels in the clitoral and vaginal areas causes increased arousal, and sensitivity which contributes to stronger and more frequent orgasms and healthier vaginal tissue.
- Who requires an O Shot
Women with:
-Decreased Libido
-Sexual dysfunction including arousal disorders, orgasmic disorders and pain during sex
-Mild to moderate stress and urge urinary incontinence
-Vaginal dryness from Menopause or from Breast Cancer treatment
-Lichen sclerosus and planus-conditions common in menopause
-Chronic perineal pain from post-partum trauma and episiotomy scars
-Chronic pain from a mesh repair for urinary incontinence
-Chronic pain from interstitial cystitis
- How do I prepare for an O shot
i) 1 week before the procedure, avoid:
-NSAID medication e.g. Ibuprofen diclofenac etc.
-Systemic corticosteroids
-Alcohol and Cigarettes
-Anti-inflammatory nutritional supplements
ii) Hydrate well the day before and the day of procedure
iii)Shave/ wax at least 2 days before procedure
iv) Ensure you are not on your period and do not have any abnormal vaginal discharge
- How does the doctor/ clinic prepare for an O Shot
Allora Medical Practice is listed on the O Shot website as an official and certified provider of the procedure, listed on the O Shot website. Prior to performing the procedure Dr. Kristina Sule will decide whether you require a psychological assessment. Thereafter the following documentation must be complete:
- Informed consent form
- Sexual dysfunction assessment form
- Personal medical, obstetric and gynecological history
- What should you expect during and after the procedure
The entire process takes about an hour even though the injections take only a few minutes each. About 15-20ml of blood is drawn from the client and placed in a centrifuge to extract the PRP. Topical numbing cream is then applied on the genital area. After about 20 min the clitoris is injected with local anaesthetic . The extracted PRP is then activated and injected into the clitoris and vagina. Pain is minimal approximately 2 on a pain scale of 0-10.
- How soon and which benefits should one expect after the procedure
Within 3 -7 days there is a heightened sensation in the treated area due to the nodule formed from the actual fluid injection. At 3 weeks new tissues develop with the peak reaching at 3 months. Each woman responds differently but expected effects ( and client reviews) include greater arousal from clitoral stimulation, stronger and frequent orgasm, increased libido, decreased pain for those with painful intercourse, increased natural lubrication, decreased urinary incontinence, improved vulval skin. Some potential but rare side effects include allergic reaction, bruising, numbness, redness, swelling and sensitivity at the injection site, amongst others.
- How frequently does one need the procedure?
The results should last 1 year.
