Genital electrolysis
Genital electrolysis for transgender and cisgender women
Electrolysis can be used to permanently remove hair from any external area of the human body. Your surgeon may request that genital hair is removed prior to Gender Confirmation Surgery. The area to clear should be discussed with your surgeon, as techniques do differ.
Genital electrolysis is necessary to ensure that hair is not present in the transplanted tissue of your new vagina. This removes the potential risk of follicular infection caused through friction whilst dilating or during intercourse.
Other treatments for transwomen and cisgender women are also available. These include, bikini hair removal, perineum and beautiful landing strips.
Electrolysis is favoured over laser as it is the only proven method of permanent hair removal.
Timescale for genital electrolysis
The complete growth cycle of genital hair is spread over many months. During the growth cycle a significant percentage of genital hair will be in the resting (telogen) phase at the time of the first treatment. Hair which is resting may be visible, but will not be connected to the papilla. Depending upon the modality this hair may not suitable for treatment. We request that you shave the area four days before each treatment which ensures that all visible hair will be in the anagen growth phase.
Plan to complete the treatment eight weeks before your date for surgery, which ensures that the process has been completed and that your skin is in the best possible condition for surgery.
Treatment plan
1st session 2 hours
2nd session 2 hours: 21 days after the first session
3rd session 2 hours: 21 days after the second session
4th session 2 hours: 21 days after the third session
This sequence continues until a first pass clearance has been made. Any changes to the frequency of appointments are then discussed.
(Treatment times are dependent upon your surgeons requirements for the areas to be cleared.)
Preparation for genital electrolysis
Hygiene is of paramount importance and it is recommended that you thoroughly cleanse the area to be treated with an antimicrobial body wash, before and after treatment. We will be pleased to advise on this and other requirements at your consultation.
Shave the area 4 days before treatment and use the antimicrobial body wash before and after shaving. (Shaving ensures that all hairs to be treated will be in the active anagen growth phase)
Be scrupulous about hygiene, as the genital area hosts many forms of bacteria and is particularly prone to potential infection.
Your genital electrolysis
It is natural to feel self conscious before your first session and we are aware of how you may be feeling. But you will soon feel at ease as this is often our daily work and we will respect your dignity at all times.
Scrotal skin is challenging as it is soft, highly elastic and there are many skin folds. This requires extra attention in making the three way stretch, to access the hair follicle.
Post-genital electrolysis
Use the shower and not the bath for the first 72 hours following treatment.
Continue using the antimicrobial wash for several days following your treatment.
Wear loose fitting clothing until it feels comfortable to wear your usual clothes.
