Orgasm-Improving Injections Could Spread Herpes And HPV, Gyno Warns

An injection said to boost women’s sexual pleasure could spread herpes, a gynecologist warns, the Independent reports. What’s more, the procedure could also even cause spread cancer-causing HPV. The doctor asserts her claims by highlighting the fact that the procedure is not backed by any studies. How could that be, you say? Read on below to find out more...

The O-shot. It’s safe to say that 2017 has been the year of “vampire” vagina injections. But if you somehow haven’t heard of what it is, here’s a refresher: also known as the O-Shot, the injection is a non-invasive treatment which promises to improve orgasms and rejuvenate the vagina. In other words, it’s supposed to do a lot for women.

How it works. So, how does it work? Developed by plastic surgeon Dr. Charles Runels, the shot works by incorporating platelets containing the patient’s own blood (hence why it’s called “vampire” vagina injections) from their arm which is then placed in a special centrifuge. This then generates “high quality” Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), The Independent reports.

How it works. The PRP is then injected into certain parts of the vagina. The end goal? To improve sensitivity, tightness, and the intensity of orgasms. Simple enough, right?

Women. Seemingly, many women have undergone the procedure in the hopes of rejuvenating both their vagina and sex life. And so far, the concept has been deemed as generally safe and effective. But now, one doctor is saying hell to the no.

Warning. As The Independent reports, Dr. Jen Gunter is a Canadian-based gynecologist that is fiercely against the O-shot. Why? Because not only is there no science behind the procedure, it also has the potential to spread infections, she alleges.

No studies. On her personal blog, Dr. Gunter notes that there is a lack of research on the procedure. "There are no studies at all suggesting the 'O-Shot' improves orgasm or sexual function,” she writes.

No studies. Dr. Gunter continues: "There is no animal or human data suggesting it is safe to inject in the vaginal epithelium or into the clitoris. Who knows if this could spread the human papillomavirus or herpes to other areas of the lower genital tract?"

Dangerous. Dr. Gunter goes on to explain how there are a number of ways the procedure could actually be dangerous for women. “I can think of a thousand ways this could harm women,” she writes. This, of course, the potential spreading of HPV and herpes.

Biologically possible. The doctor goes on to note that while it is “biologically plausible” for the procedure to work, she by no means endorses it. This is because, as mentioned, of the lack of studies on humans and even animals regarding the impact of PRP on vaginal tissue. “If a doctor recommended the 'O-Shot' to anyone I know my advice would be to get up and walk out the door,” she writes.

Other experts. As it turns out, Dr. Gunter isn’t the only one warning against the therapy. Per The Independent: "Recently, The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists noted in its review on vaginal rejuvenation and cosmetic vaginal procedures that such therapies are not 'accepted as routine surgical practices’." The review reads: “Clinicians who receive requests from patients for such procedures should discuss with the patient the reason for her request and perform an evaluation for any physical signs or symptoms that may indicate the need for surgical intervention."

Still happening. Of course, O-shots are still being given to women across the world. And this is happening despite the lack of research on the matter. In fact, The Independent recently spoke to one doctor who has given the injection to over 2,000 women.

More requests. Even with the lack of research, requests for the O-shot have undoubtedly increased over the years. “The rise of non-surgical genital rejuvenation, in general, has increased a lot due to the advanced technology that is now present and patients now started to be informed but we are still in a very early stage,” Dr. Sharif Wakil explained to The Independent.

Positive testimonials. Dr. Wakil attributes the rise in O-shots to positive patient testimonials. Well, at least partially. “The fact that women finally heard about a treatment that can at least help them regain some of their sensitivity as there was nothing at all in the market for that,” he told The Independent.

Risks. That said, Dr. Wakil doesn’t deny that there are risks involved with undergoing the procedure. Per The Independent: "Dr Wakil says all injections carry certain risks such as bleeding, infection and damaging the nerve endings but claims he has never seen any side effects in the 2,000 cases he has personally administered."

Bottom line. Overall, there is most certainly a lack of data regarding “vampire” vagina injections. So if you’re thinking about undergoing the procedure, do your research. (Though let’s be real here: you probably shouldn’t be doing at all.)