Vaginal Rejuvenation Devices: What the TGA’s Recent Ban Means for the Aesthetic Industry

The Australian aesthetic industry is no stranger to regulatory changes, but the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) recent removal of energy-based vaginal rejuvenation devices from the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) is a significant turning point. This decision, rooted in patient safety and clinical evidence, impacts not only clinics and practitioners but also the women who have benefited from these treatments.

Let’s unpack what this means for the industry, patients, and the future of aesthetic regulation in Australia.

Why Did the TGA Ban These Devices?

The TGA conducted a comprehensive post-market review of devices such as lasers and radiofrequency tools marketed for vaginal rejuvenation. Their findings were clear: there isn’t enough clinical evidence to back the safety and effectiveness of these devices for claims like treating vaginal laxity, dryness, stress urinary incontinence, and other intimate health issues.

The TGA’s decision prioritises patient safety. Without robust data supporting these devices, the risk of complications such as scarring, infection, or altered sexual sensations cannot be ignored. As a result, all such devices have been delisted for vaginal rejuvenation, although they remain approved for other applications, like dermatology.

What Does This Mean for Women?

For many women, vaginal rejuvenation treatments have provided an accessible, non-surgical option for addressing sensitive and often life-altering concerns. The ban may leave some patients without viable alternatives, limiting their choices for managing issues such as menopause-related dryness or post-childbirth changes.

The TGA has encouraged patients to seek guidance from healthcare professionals for alternative treatments. However, this decision highlights the broader issue of accessibility—without these treatments, some women may find their options restricted or feel unsupported in addressing their intimate health concerns.

What Does This Mean for the Industry?

This change isn’t just about these devices—it’s a signal that the regulatory landscape for the aesthetic industry is shifting. The TGA’s scrutiny reflects an increasing demand for evidence-backed treatments and greater accountability.

At the same time, inconsistent regulation remains a challenge. While some areas of the industry face heavy oversight, others experience regulatory gaps, creating a patchwork approach that complicates compliance for clinics and suppliers.  The industry needs a unified voice to navigate these changes. Without strong representation, we risk being shaped by external forces that may not fully understand the nuances of our work.

The Role of Self-Regulation

For years, the aesthetic industry has lacked cohesive self-regulation, leaving us vulnerable to decisions imposed by external bodies. ABIC is committed to changing that by advocating for balanced, evidence-based policies that protect patients and support practitioners.  Joining ABIC’s Self-Regulation Committee is one of the most effective ways to make a difference. Together, we can lead the way in establishing high standards and ensuring that the industry grows sustainably while prioritising safety and professionalism.

Share Your Feedback

The TGA’s decision will have far-reaching implications, and we want to hear from you. How will this affect your clinic, your patients, and the services you provide? ABIC is collecting feedback to present to the TGA, ensuring that our industry’s voice is part of this conversation.

Let’s shape the future of aesthetics in Australia—together. Contact ABIC to share your insights by emailing us at [email protected] or learn more about joining the Self-Regulation Committee, visit https://theabic.org.au/abic-self-regulation-committee

To become a member of ABIC and join the unified voice for change visit https://theabic.org.au/memberships