Node Smith, ND
There is a relatively new regenerative treatment for vaginal atrophy and other vaginal, gynecological and post-menopausal issues. The treatment involves using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from fat tissue to stimulate healthy tissue growth. This has been coined as Lipogems technology, and is similar in theory to other injectable regenerative treatments such as platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP), where a biologically active material is injected into a dysfunctional area to generate growth of healthy tissue.
Lipogems technology gaining traction in sports medicine
Lipogems technology is gaining traction in the sports medicine field because of its apparent ability to regenerate damaged tissue after injuries, but it also may be be beneficial in treatment of some common symptoms related with menopause, vaginal dryness, soreness, burning sensations and discomfort during intercourse.
It is estimated that 50 percent of women are impacted negatively from menopausal symptoms, and many suffer without help. 294 million women worldwide suffer from vaginal atrophy after menopause, and upwards of 75 percent go untreated.
Regenerative Woman Clinic in the United Kingdom
A clinic in the United Kingdom, the Regenerative Woman Clinic is pioneering the use of Lipogems technology for the treatment of vaginal atrophy and many other gynecological conditions. Lipogems treatments is gaining traction and more than 30,000 have been performed on hips, knees, ankles, and shoulders.
Adipose contains regenerative stem cells
Fat tissue, or adipose contains regenerative stem cells at a higher concentration than other tissues in the body, and is easily harvested. The adipose tissue, once taken from the body is then screened to consolidate the stem cells and injected back into problem areas. The procedure is minimally invasive and can be done as an outpatient procedure where available.
It is estimated that over 40% of menopausal women will experience symptoms related to vaginal atrophy
According to the Regenerative Women’s Clinic, Lipogems® technology can be used for the effective treatment of vaginal atrophy, dryness, soreness and pain during sex. For each woman the experience of the menopause is extremely personal however, it is estimated that over 40% of menopausal women will experience symptoms related to vaginal atrophy. It is particularly helpful for multiple uses for other conditions such as Lichen sclerosis, Lichen Planus, Lichen simplex, stress incontinence, tearing as a result of birth-trauma and problems caused by oestrogen deficiency.
A relatively new treatment that may help countless women
Though a relatively new treatment, this may help countless women, and should be kept on the radar as it becomes more developed as a therapy.
Node Smith, ND, is a naturopathic physician in Humboldt, Saskatchewan and associate editor and continuing education director for NDNR. His mission is serving relationships that support the process of transformation, and that ultimately lead to healthier people, businesses and communities. His primary therapeutic tools include counselling, homeopathy, diet and the use of cold water combined with exercise. Node considers health to be a reflection of the relationships a person or a business has with themselves, with God and with those around them. In order to cure disease and to heal, these relationships must be specifically considered. Node has worked intimately with many groups and organizations within the naturopathic profession, and helped found the non-profit, Association for Naturopathic Revitalization (ANR), which works to promote and facilitate experiential education in vitalism.
Node Smith graduated from the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) in 2017, and is currently licensed as a naturopathic physician in Oregon and working towards becoming licensed in Saskatchewan, Canada as well.
