Can laser treatment make certain conditions worse?
Yes, laser treatment can sometimes worsen certain conditions—such as undiagnosed infections, active lichen sclerosus, or severe atrophy—if not carefully selected and monitored by a specialist.
Detailed Medical Explanation
Laser energy can aggravate untreated infections, trigger flares of conditions like lichen sclerosus or vulvodynia, and cause additional tissue trauma in women with advanced atrophy. Careful pre-treatment assessment and exclusion of contraindications are essential to minimise harm. If symptoms worsen after laser, further investigation and specialist review are advised. For details, see NICE guidance and RCOG GSM.
Clinical Context
Proper diagnosis and selection are crucial to avoid worsening of underlying vaginal or vulval disease with laser.
Evidence-Based Approaches
NICE and RCOG recommend thorough assessment and specialist input before considering laser for complex or chronic genital conditions. See NICE guidance.