What is vaginal rejuvenation? Brooke Shields opens up about the time a surgeon performed the surgery on her without consent

Brooke Shields, the acclaimed actress and model, has shared a troubling experience in her forthcoming memoir, Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman. Shields disclosed that a male surgeon performed a vaginal rejuvenation procedure on her without her consent. This was following a separate surgery she had agreed to in her 40s, as reported by People on January 10, 2025.

The incident, which she describes as a profound invasion of her autonomy, led to feelings of shame and anger that she has only now decided to address publicly.

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Brooke Shields' response and decision to stay silent

In the memoir, Brooke Shields recounts seeking medical help for persistent discomfort caused by her labia during activities like exercising and wearing tight clothing. Her gynecologist recommended labial reduction surgery to alleviate the issue.

However, during a follow-up consultation, Shields was informed by the surgeon that he had performed an additional procedure: vaginal rejuvenation, commonly known as vaginal tightening. The surgeon reportedly presented this unsolicited operation as a complimentary enhancement, saying:

"I tightened you up a little bit! Gave you a little rejuvenation!" Shields was horrified, describing the act as an invasion and likening it to assault. She wrote, "It felt like such an invasion — such a bizarre, like, r*pe of some kind."

The unauthorized procedure left Brooke Shields feeling violated and deeply disturbed. Initially, she refrained from speaking out, even to her husband, screenwriter Chris Henchy. Shields revealed she did not pursue legal action against the surgeon, fearing public scrutiny and sensationalism.

"I didn’t particularly want talk of my lady parts once again on the front page of every paper," she shared in the memoir.

Physically, the results of the procedure were not beneficial. Brooke noted that the changes to her body were not positive, adding to her frustration and regret about the experience.

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Vaginal rejuvenation procedure

Vaginal rejuvenation encompasses various surgeries aimed at tightening the vaginal canal or improving its appearance, often marketed as a means to enhance sexual satisfaction or address age-related changes. However, the medical community is divided on the procedure's efficacy and necessity, citing limited evidence of its benefits and potential risks involved.

Brooke Shields' story underscores the importance of informed consent in medical treatments, a topic she highlights in her memoir. She encourages women to be vigilant and assertive about their healthcare decisions, writing:

"If we are to change the way we approach and talk about women’s health, then we need to bring up the uncomfortable but very real issues. Shame is no longer an option."

Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman is set for release on January 14, 2025. In the memoir, Shields discusses her personal experiences with aging, navigating the entertainment industry’s expectations, and embracing her body with confidence.

Her memoir offers a candid exploration of the challenges women face regarding health and autonomy while shedding light on the broader societal issues surrounding these conversations.

Shields is scheduled to discuss her new book on aging at the Library of Congress on January 28, 2025. The event will include an author talk and book signing.