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2026.11.07
What's the difference between AlmaDuo and Forma V? A non-surgical, non-invasive treatment for dyspareunia and vaginal dryness
After engaging in general obstetrics and gynecology practice, including infertility treatment, perinatal care, and other insured treatments, I decided to shift my career to free practice and gynecological aesthetics, with the hope of “supporting women to enjoy their life as a woman” after my own experience fighting against illness. Today, while still being involved in insured medical care as an obstetrician/gynecologist, I am facing women's health issues based on medical evidence through "real femtec" such as gynecologic plastic surgery, Vaginal Growth® injections, and vaginal hyaluronic acid injections, based on my deep anatomical knowledge and skills. We are a leading provider of gynecological services in Japan.
She is also committed to social activities related to the dissemination of sex education, HPV vaccine awareness, and the improvement of women's quality of life. He is also actively involved in educating the public about medical knowledge, such as writing Chapter 7, "Vaginal Hyaluronic Acid Injection," in his specialty book, "The Basics of Cosmetic Surgery," which is the first book he reads when he becomes a cosmetic surgeon.
The difference between AlmaDuo and Forma V lies in the energy they use and the tissues they target. AlmaDuo is a treatment that uses low-intensity shockwaves to improve blood flow around the genital area, while Forma V is a treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) thermal energy to improve firmness and elasticity in the vagina and vulva. Although both are non-invasive treatments that do not involve incisions or needles, the most suitable treatment varies depending on the cause of the symptoms and the patient’s physical condition.
"I want to address my concerns about my intimate area. But I'm afraid of treatments that involve cutting or injections..."
Pain during intercourse or vaginal dryness. While these issues may be a concern, some people may hesitate to seek treatment because they worry about the physical toll it might take on their bodies.
If this sounds like you, we’d like to tell you about non-surgical, non-invasive gynecological device treatments.
In particular, Alma Duo and Forma V are treatments that use different technologies to address concerns related to the intimate area.
Even if the symptoms are similar, the appropriate treatment varies depending on the cause.
So, what's the difference?
In this article, we’ll compare two treatments and share key points you should know when choosing a treatment.
What is the difference between Alma Duo and Forma V?
AlmaDuo is characterized by its use of shock waves to treat blood flow, while Forma V uses radiofrequency to treat vaginal and vulvar tissue. Neither procedure requires incisions or needles, but there are differences in how they feel during treatment and the frequency of follow-up visits.
First, let's take a look at the main differences in the table below.
| Comparison Items | armaduo | Form V |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Methods | Low-intensity shock waves | High-frequency (RF) |
| Key Approaches | Blood Flow Around the Genitals | Tightness and Elasticity of the Vagina and Vulva |
| Needles and Incisions | None | None |
| Sensations During the Treatment | A sensation like being tapped lightly | Feeling the warmth |
| Anesthesia | Generally not necessary | Use of topical anesthesia |
| Number of treatments | About twice a week, for a total of 6 sessions | As a general guideline, every 4 weeks, for a total of 3 to 4 times |
| Downtime | Relatively few | Relatively few |
Even among “non-surgical treatments,” the expected results and the treatment process vary.
AlmaDuo is best suited for people who..."Who is Alma Duo best suited for?"But we go into more detail there.
Even though both AlmaDuo and Forma V are non-invasive treatments, they work differently.
Alma Duo is a treatment that uses shock waves to affect blood flow, while Forma V is a treatment that uses radiofrequency to heat tissue. While both treatments are non-invasive, they use different types of energy.
AlmaDuo aims to improve blood flow using shock waves
Alma Duo is a treatment that uses low-intensity extracorporeal shock waves—mild shock waves.
This treatment aims to improve sexual function by delivering shock waves to the area around the genitals to stimulate a response in the tissues involved in blood flow.
Another characteristic is that it does not involve injections or incisions.
This treatment is used not only for women’s pain during intercourse and changes in sexual response, but also for men’s concerns regarding erectile function.
If you'd like to learn more about how AlmaDuo works,"What Is Alma Duo? An Explanation of Its Effects and Features"Please see.
Forma V uses high-frequency heat to treat the vagina and vulva
Forma V is a treatment that utilizes radiofrequency (RF) thermal energy.
By warming the tissues of the vagina and vulva and stimulating reactions involved in collagen production, this treatment aims to improve firmness, elasticity, and a feeling of tightness.
"I've been concerned about vaginal tightness more than before," "I feel discomfort due to dryness."
It is also one treatment option to consider for those who have begun to notice such changes.
For more information."What Is Forma V? How High-Frequency RF Works and Its Effects"Please also refer to this.
Which is better for dyspareunia or vaginal dryness: Alma Duo or Forma V?
Pain during intercourse and vaginal dryness can be caused by a variety of factors, including blood flow to the genital area, the condition of the vaginal mucosa, and changes in female hormones. Alma Duo and Forma V are treatment options that should be considered after assessing the underlying causes of these symptoms.
For concerns related to changes in blood flow, try Alma Duo
Pain during sexual intercourse and changes in sexual response may be related to blood flow in the genital area.
Alma Duo addresses these concerns by focusing on blood flow.
In fact, a study on shockwave therapy for women suffering from dyspareunia was published in 2021.
A comparison between a group that received shockwave therapy and a group that did not actually receive treatment showed that the group that received treatment reported pain relief. [1]
Although this study does not use AlmaDuo itself, it serves as a useful reference. However, since the same results may not be achieved, it is important to identify the cause of the symptoms.
If you're concerned about vaginal firmness and elasticity, try Forma V
After giving birth or as you get older, you may notice that your vagina feels different than it used to.
For example, changes in firmness and tightness.
Forma V is a treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) thermal energy to target tissue in the vagina and vulva.
The term “radiofrequency” might sound complicated, but “Borneuma”—which is used to treat facial sagging—is also a cosmetic medical device that utilizes radiofrequency.
Forma V aims to improve firmness, elasticity, and a feeling of tightness by delivering thermal energy to the vagina and vulva.
On the other hand, vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse may sometimes be related to a decrease in female hormones or inflammation.
In particular, for vaginal dryness around the time of menopause, moisturizers and hormone therapy are often appropriate treatments.
Don't just assume that "dryness means you need gynecological treatment"; first, find out the cause.
This is an essential step in finding the treatment that's right for you.
Differences in Pain and Downtime Between Alma Duo and Forma V
Both Alma Duo and Forma V are treatments that involve relatively little downtime. However, there are differences in the sensations felt during the procedure and the post-treatment precautions.
Alma Duo provides a gentle, tapping sensation
During an Alma Duo treatment, you’ll feel a sensation similar to being tapped lightly.
Anesthesia is generally not required. Since you can easily return to your normal daily routine after the procedure, this treatment is a good option even for those with busy schedules. However, sensitivity to stimulation varies from person to person, and you may experience temporary pain, numbness, or discomfort.
If any symptoms that concern you persist, please don't push yourself—consult a doctor.
The Forma V treatment provides a gentle, soothing warmth.
A distinctive feature of Forma V is that it delivers high-frequency heat to the vagina and vulva, so you’ll feel a gentle warmth during the procedure.
At our clinic, we generally use topical anesthesia to ensure your comfort during treatment. Although downtime is relatively short, redness, swelling, and pain may occur.
How you care for yourself after the procedure is also important. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding when to resume sexual activity and bathing, based on the condition of the treated area.
Differences in the Number of Treatments and Frequency of Visits Between Alma Duo and Forma V
As a general rule, Alma Duo treatments are performed multiple times over a short period, while Forma V treatments are typically repeated about once a month. There are differences not only in the number of visits but also in the schedule leading up to the completion of treatment.
Alma Duo is recommended twice a week, for a total of 6 sessions.
The standard treatment plan consists of 6 sessions over 3 weeks, with sessions held twice a week.
Since your appointments will be concentrated within a relatively short period, it’s a good idea to plan a schedule that works with your work and personal commitments without putting too much strain on yourself.
Just because the treatment is over doesn't mean everything is finished. We may monitor any subsequent changes and consider additional treatment as needed.
The recommended frequency for Forma V is 3 to 4 times every 4 weeks.
For Forma V, the recommended treatment schedule is about 3 to 4 sessions every 4 weeks.
While some people notice a difference after just one session, this treatment is generally designed to improve your condition through a series of sessions.
Although the treatment period tends to be longer than with Alma Duo, there is about a one-month interval between treatments.
Whichever option you choose, it’s important to consider not only the treatment itself but also how convenient it is to get there and how well it fits with your lifestyle.
Things to Check When Considering the Alma Duo and Forma V at BIANCA
Whether AlmaDuo or Forma V is more suitable depends on the cause of dyspareunia or vaginal dryness, the condition of the vaginal tissue, and your treatment preferences.
In our medical practice, we don’t focus solely on the presence or absence of symptoms.
"How long have you been concerned about this?" "In what situations do you feel uncomfortable?"
Even these small changes in daily life can serve as important clues for identifying the cause.
For example, while some people experience pain only during sexual intercourse, others experience dryness or discomfort on a regular basis. Just because this treatment involves no cutting or injections does not mean it is necessarily suitable for everyone.
The important thing is not to think of the treatment as the be-all and end-all.
When it comes to sensitive health concerns, don’t keep them to yourself—why not start by checking your physical condition?
If you’d like to learn more about the differences between Alma Duo and Forma V, or find out which treatment is right for you, please contact Bianca Clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alma Duo and Forma V
Here are answers to some common questions you might have about Alma Duo and Forma V before your treatment.
Q. Which is more effective for dyspareunia: Alma Duo or Forma V?
A. It depends on the cause of dyspareunia, so it’s not possible to say definitively which approach is better. We will assess blood flow and the condition of the vaginal tissue, among other factors, and then determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
Q. Don't both the Alma Duo and Forma V use needles?
A. Yes. Since AlmaDuo uses low-intensity shock waves and Forma V uses radiofrequency, both treatments can be performed without inserting a needle. However, with Forma V, a specialized device is inserted into the vagina to deliver the treatment.
Q. Which one hurts more, Alma Duo or Forma V?
A. With Alma Duo, you may feel a light tapping sensation, while with Forma V, you may feel warmth.
While we generally use topical anesthesia for Forma V, the level of pain experienced varies from person to person.
Q. Which has less downtime: Alma Duo or Forma V?
A. Both procedures involve relatively little downtime.
However, with Forma V, redness, swelling, or other reactions may occur after treatment. Post-treatment care and lifestyle precautions vary depending on the procedure.
Q. How many sessions of Alma Duo and Forma V do I need to undergo?
A. At BIANCA, we generally recommend using Alma Duo twice a week for a total of six sessions, and Forma V three to four times every four weeks.
However, since the number of sessions required varies depending on your symptoms and the course of treatment, we will determine this in consultation with your doctor.
Learn the differences between Alma Duo and Forma V, and find the treatment that's right for you
Both AlmaDuo and Forma V are non-invasive gynecological treatments—they involve no cutting or piercing—but they work on the body in different ways.
AlmaDuo is a treatment designed to improve blood flow using shock waves, while Forma V aims to improve the firmness and elasticity of the vagina and vulva using high-frequency thermal energy.
"I'm concerned about pain during intercourse." "I feel like my vagina isn't as moist as it used to be."
Even if you have these concerns, the causes vary from person to person. The important thing is not to choose a treatment based solely on its features, but to understand your own physical condition.
It can be difficult to talk to others about concerns regarding your intimate area. But you shouldn’t just put up with it.
If you're unsure which treatment is right for you, please feel free to consult with BIANCA CLINIC.
▶Learn More About Alma Duo Treatments
▶Learn More About V-Form Treatments
▶Schedule a Consultation at Bianca Clinic
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