Coologics' Revolutionary Temperature-Based Approach to Vaginal Infections
Written by Dr. Brittany Barreto, Ph.D., Founder & Chief Innovation Officer, FemHealth Insights
In women's health, innovation is not just a buzzword but a necessity. Coologics, a forward-thinking femtech company, is at the forefront of this innovation with their platform technology, Vlisse, a patented, drug-free treatment for vaginal infections, including yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis.
In women's health, vaginal issues are paramount, with 30% of gynecological visits due to vaginitis, mainly from yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis (BV). The annual US market for yeast and BV treatments is collectively valued at $6 billion. Alarmingly, 75% of women will experience a yeast infection, and 34% suffer from multiple infections every year. Despite various products, 80% of women are dissatisfied with leading over-the-counter solutions, and the rise of antibiotic resistance intensifies the need for novel solutions, especially for BV. Current practices of full-course antibiotics, which indiscriminately target all bacteria throughout the body, are often ineffective and perilous, posing risks of harmful imbalances and recurrent infections.
The Genesis of Vlisse
Vlisse was born out of a simple, yet groundbreaking concept: using cooling mechanisms to revert the infectious forms of yeast and bacteria back to their dormant states. This approach, based on extensive research and data, including animal and human studies, represents a paradigm shift in treating vaginal infections.
Understanding the usage of Vlisse is as simple as its design. The device, stored in a freezer, requires about two hours to freeze. Once ready, it's inserted much like a tampon into the vagina and is left in place for about 30 minutes. This duration allows for adequate cooling and symptom relief. Notably, Vlisse is designed for single use and could be available both over-the-counter and by prescription, with an initial focus on the latter as recommended by the FDA.
The device, elegantly designed and user-friendly, works through four distinct mechanisms:
Cooling the Infection: The device effectively cools the infected area to under 86 degrees, causing the infectious fungi (yeast infection) or bacteria (BV) to revert to their dormant state. This reversion is crucial in halting the progression of the infection.
Reducing Inflammation: Cooling is a well-established method for reducing inflammation and alleviating symptoms like itching, burning, and swelling.
Promoting Good Bacteria: The device may help in fostering the growth of lactobacillus, the beneficial bacteria in the vagina, by creating a conducive cold environment.
Breaking Biofilms: The device can disrupt biofilms, a significant factor in infection recurrence, through cooling, pH normalization, and the gentle action of insertion.
Clinical Studies and Efficacy
Clinical trials have shown promising results, with a 100% cure rate in some studies using the device twice a day for two to three days. This high efficacy rate, coupled with the simplicity of use, positions Vlisse as a highly effective alternative to traditional treatments, which can be costlier, less effective, and contribute to rising antibiotic resistance rates in bacteria.
Impact on Preterm Births
Beyond treating infections, Vlisse might have a profound impact on preterm births. Vaginal infections like BV have been linked to preterm births, and current treatments, while trying to address these infections, often do not consider the comprehensive nature of the vaginal environment. By treating infections and reducing inflammation without disrupting the vaginal microbiome, Vlisse offers a holistic approach that could potentially reduce the rate of preterm births significantly.
Conclusion: A New Dawn in Women's Health
Coologics' Vlisse represents a beacon of hope and change in women's healthcare. Its innovative approach to treating vaginal infections, potential impact on preterm birth rates, and simple yet effective design place it at the cusp of a healthcare revolution. As we await its entry into the market, the promise of Vlisse shines bright, signaling a future where women's health is approached with the innovation, respect, and efficacy it deserves.
About the Author:
Dr. Brittany Barreto, PH.D., is Founder and Chief Innovation Officer at FemHealth Insights. Every day, Brittany dedicates her work to advancing women’s health innovation by equipping key stakeholders with data-driven insights and strategic advice on the FemHealth market. She is also host of the FemTech Focus Podcast - the number 1 femtech podcast globally.
