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Joint Report on Terminology for Cosmetic Gynecology

  • AUGS-IUGA Joint Publication
  • Published:
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Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

The current terminology used to describe cosmetic gynecologic procedures includes many nondescriptive, trademarked, or informal names, which contributes to substantial ambiguity about their aims and specific techniques. The development of clear, uniform descriptive terminology for cosmetic gynecology is needed for patients, researchers, and practitioners across multiple specialties.

Methods

This document was developed from a collaboration of selected members from the International Urogynecological Association (IUGA) and the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS). Wide-ranging literature reviews were performed to identify the breadth of currently used terms and tools for measuring efficacy and safety. After extensive internal review the adoption of each definition was ratified by group consensus.

Results

A terminology report for elective cosmetic gynecology procedures, anatomical classification, outcome metrics, and reporting of complications has been developed. This document seeks to provide clear descriptive guidance for patients, researchers, and practitioners across multiple specialties. This document will be subject to internal review by IUGA and AUGS to incorporate and adopt evidence-based changes in the field.

Conclusions

A consensus-based document establishing clear terminology for cosmetic gynecology procedures has been created. Use of these terms should be encouraged to provide clarity to patients seeking these procedures and to facilitate future research to establish the safety and efficacy of these procedures.

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Acknowledgements

This document reflects clinical and scientific advances as of the date issued and is subject to change. The information should not be construed as dictating an exclusive course of treatment or procedure to be followed. Its content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, diagnosis, or treatment. The ultimate judgment regarding any specific procedure or treatment is to be made by the physician and patient in light of all circumstances presented by the patient. The authors would like to thank Charlotte Holden and Marie Dauenheimer for their illustrations.

The following writing group members are being recognized for their contributions to this article: Writing Group Chair: Bobby Garcia, MD (New York City Health & Hospitals - Lincoln, Bronx, New York). IUGA Members: Rufus Cartwright, MD(res), MRCOG, PhD (Imperial College of London, UK); Samantha Conde Rocha Rangel, MD, MSC (Clinica Conde, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil); Daniela Gold, MD, PhD (Medical University Graz, Graz, Austria); Natalia Novikova, MBChB, PhD (Private Practice, Cape Town & Johannesburg, South Africa); Jennifer Jose, MD (Saint Luke’s Medical Center Global City, Taguig, Philippines). AUGS Members: Cheryl Iglesia, MD (MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC); Linda S Burkett, MD, MSc (Magee-Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA); Alexis Dieter, MD (MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC); Alexandra Dubinskaya, MD (Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA); Christine Heisler, MD (University of Wisconsin School of Medicine & Public Health, Madison, WI).

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    Developed by the Joint Writing Group of the International Urogynecological Association and the American Urogynecologic Society

    • Bobby Garcia
    • , Rufus Cartwright
    • , Cheryl Iglesia
    • , Samantha Conde Rocha Rangel
    • , Daniela Gold
    • , Natalia Novikova
    • , Jennifer Jose
    • , Linda S. Burkett
    • , Alexis Dieter
    • , Alexandra Dubinskaya
    •  & Christine Heisler

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    Inclusion of any specific procedure does not constitute an endorsement of the organizations involved in the writing of this paper, but rather an objective description for future research. We acknowledge the need for standardization of terminology within this newly emerging field with the aim of supporting and facilitating evidence-based approaches and patient care. This document aims to raise the standard on what is appropriate and acceptable while educating providers on what is commonly occurring with minimal data on safety and efficacy.

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    Individual writing group members are noted in the acknowledgment section.

    This report is being published concurrently in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery and in International Urogynecology Journal. The report is identical except for minor stylistic and spelling differences in keeping with each journal’s style. Citations from any of the two journals can be used when citing this article.

    Correspondence: Bobby Garcia, MD, New York City Health & Hospitals - Lincoln 234 East 149th Street, 5th Floor Department of OB/GYN Bronx, NY 10451, USA. E-mail: Garcia.Bobby@gmail.com

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    Developed by the Joint Writing Group of the International Urogynecological Association and the American Urogynecologic Society. Joint Report on Terminology for Cosmetic Gynecology. Int Urogynecol J 33, 1367–1386 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-05010-7

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