Social media has been abuzz with considerations about “Ozempic vulva,” a situation seemingly affecting ladies attempting to drop pounds with GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide. In keeping with many studies, the utilization of such medicine could trigger “uncommon” unwanted side effects like adjustments within the labia, together with dryness and even urinary incontinence. However what precisely is it?
“Whereas these drugs can assist shed important weight, some ladies have reported a troubling and less-discussed aspect impact, now colloquially known as ‘Ozempic vulva or Ozempic vagina’,” stated Dr Karuna Malhotra, aesthetic doctor, Beauty Pores and skin and Homeo Clinic in New Delhi’s Rajouri Backyard.
Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology and weight reduction professional, Zandra Healthcare and co-founder, Rang De Neela Initiative, confused the necessity to deal with these claims with science and readability.
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“Weight reduction by GLP-1 remedy results in a discount of fats in a number of areas of the physique, which can change bodily contours, however there is no such thing as a medical proof to help that this causes pathological drooping of the labia. Quite the opposite, weight problems is a widely known danger issue for urinary incontinence, and weight discount, whether or not by life-style, surgical procedure, or drugs like semaglutide, has been persistently proven to enhance bladder management,” stated Dr Kovil.
A lot of my sufferers report higher mobility, confidence, and sexual satisfaction after weight reduction, he stated. “As for dryness, there is no such thing as a present proof immediately linking semaglutide to vaginal dryness. Hydration, hormonal standing, and menopausal adjustments stay the first elements influencing this,” stated Dr Kovil.
Notably, Dr Malhotra stated the vulva consists of fatty tissue, and when this quantity decreases quickly, it could give a hollowed or aged look. For a lot of ladies, this results in a mismatch between their slimmer physique and the best way their intimate space seems, stated Dr Malhotra.
Why must you be involved? (Picture: Getty Photos/Thinkstock)
In keeping with Dr Shobha Gupta, medical director and gynaecologist, Mom’s Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi and founder, Mumma’s Blessing IVF and Birthing Paradise in Vrindavan, adjustments within the vulva could not simply be beauty. “Lack of fatty padding within the vulva can generally result in discomfort, elevated sensitivity, and even ache throughout bodily actions and intimacy,” she stated.
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Dr Gupta emphasised that the vulvar tissues are hormonally delicate, and important weight adjustments can alter the steadiness of estrogen and fatty tissue help. This will generally end in dryness, irritation, or the next danger of infections as a consequence of friction, stated Dr Gupta.
Moreover, frequent unwanted side effects like nausea and urge for food suppression can result in severely lowered meals consumption and nutrient deficiencies—iron, B12, and important fat—which are vital for tissue, pores and skin, and mucosal well being, stated Dr Rajeshwari Panda, head of the dietetics Division, Medicover Hospital, Kharghar Navi Mumbai.
These dangers are heightened when Ozempic is used with out correct medical and dietary steering, contended Dr Panda. “The drug ought to solely be taken underneath the supervision of a certified healthcare supplier. Sufferers want common monitoring to make sure that muscle mass, hydration, and micronutrient wants are being met,” stated Dr Panda.
What ladies ought to be aware?
*Velocity issues: Fast weight reduction is extra more likely to trigger pores and skin laxity than gradual, sustainable weight reduction, stated Dr Gupta.
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*Corrective remedies exist: Aesthetic choices (fillers, PRP, radio frequency) and medical help (lubricants, hormonal steadiness if required) can assist, stated Dr Malhotra.
*Holistic care is essential: Weight reduction journeys ought to embody skincare, hydration, and pelvic well being consciousness. “Focusing solely on weight reduction with out addressing whole-body well being—particularly in ladies—can result in long-term hurt. A drugs like Ozempic ought to by no means exchange sustainable, evidence-based approaches to well being and vitamin,” stated Dr Panda.
DISCLAIMER: This text relies on data from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. At all times seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
