As women get older, or after childbirth, menopause or certain medical treatments, it’s common to notice changes like vaginal dryness, less sensitivity, a lower sex drive or a little leaking when you laugh or cough. These changes are normal, but they can still affect your confidence and your relationship. At Ridgeline Medical, one option we offer is the O-Shot®, a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment. Here’s an honest look at what it is, what some women report, and what the research does and doesn’t show yet.
What is the O-Shot®?
The O-Shot® is a non-surgical treatment that uses platelet-rich plasma (PRP) made from a small sample of your own blood. PRP is injected into the clitoral area and the upper vaginal wall. Platelets contain growth factors that play a role in healing, and the idea behind the treatment is that they may help support blood flow and tissue health in the area.
It’s important to know that using PRP for sexual health is an off-label use. The O-Shot® is not FDA-approved to treat any sexual or urinary condition, and research on it is still limited. Studies so far have been small, and results vary from person to person.
What some women report
Some patients report improvements such as:
- Better natural lubrication and less dryness
- Increased sensitivity and arousal
- Stronger or easier orgasms
- Less discomfort during sex
- Fewer leaks with coughing or sneezing
These are patient-reported results, not guarantees. Some women notice a big difference, some notice a small one, and some don’t notice a change. Early studies of PRP for stress urinary incontinence and sexual function are promising but not conclusive, so we see the O-Shot® as one option to discuss, not a cure.
Other conditions to discuss with your provider
Some women ask about PRP for skin conditions of the vulva, such as lichen sclerosus. This is an area of early research, and lichen sclerosus should first be diagnosed and treated with proven therapies, usually prescription steroid creams, with regular follow-up. If you have itching, white patches, pain or skin changes in the genital area, please schedule an exam.
Likewise, bladder leakage has many causes and many proven treatments, like pelvic floor therapy. And vaginal dryness from menopause often responds well to vaginal estrogen or moisturizers. Your provider can walk you through all of your options, including hormone therapy.
How the treatment is done
- Blood draw. We draw a small amount of blood from your arm, much like a routine lab draw.
- Preparing the PRP. The blood is spun in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelet-rich plasma.
- Numbing. A numbing cream and local anesthetic are used to minimize discomfort.
- Injection. The PRP is injected into the clitoral area and upper vaginal wall. The injections themselves take only a few minutes.
The full visit, including preparation, usually takes about 30 minutes. Most women go back to normal activities the same day.
Frequently asked questions
How soon might I notice results?
It varies. Some women report changes within a few weeks, and others take a few months. Because PRP works through the body’s own healing processes, any changes tend to develop gradually.
How long do results last?
There isn’t solid research on how long results last. Some women choose to repeat the treatment over time. Your provider can talk with you about what to expect.
What are the side effects and risks?
Because PRP comes from your own blood, allergic reactions are unlikely. Common side effects include mild swelling, bruising, soreness or spotting at the injection sites, which usually go away within a few days. As with any injection, there’s a small risk of infection. Talk with a provider about your risks, especially if you have a bleeding disorder, take blood thinners, are pregnant, or have an active infection or cancer.
Is it covered by insurance?
Usually not. The O-Shot® is considered an elective procedure. Ask us about cost when you schedule your consultation.
Who might be a good candidate?
Women dealing with dryness, low sensitivity, trouble with orgasm, discomfort during sex or mild bladder leakage may want to discuss it. A consultation comes first so we can look for other causes and review all of your options.
Who performs the O-Shot® at Ridgeline Medical
The O-Shot® is performed by Christina Finnerty, FNP-C, and Jeffrey Haskell, MD. Sexual health can be a hard topic to bring up, and our providers work to create a private, comfortable space where you can ask anything. Men interested in a similar treatment can read about the P-Shot®.
When to get help right away: call your provider if you have a fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding or unusual discharge after any procedure. Call 911 or go to the ER for heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting.
Start with a conversation
If you’re curious whether the O-Shot® could be a fit for you, schedule a private consultation at Ridgeline Medical, 2470 Jafer Ct in Idaho Falls. Learn more on our O-Shot® page or our women’s health page, or call 208-715-9990 or text 208-754-5360.
This article is for general information and isn’t medical advice. Talk with a provider about the risks, benefits and alternatives before any treatment.
