Vaginal Epithelium Elasticity
VEE
The second biopsy sample was used for evaluation of vaginal epithelium elasticity (VEE). VEE measurements were conducted using a customized Atomic Force Microscope (TE2000) equipped with a V-shape cantilever (0.13 N/m) ending with a polystyrene bead spherically shaped with a radius of 4.5 μm (Novascan). Micromechanics were examined by indenting the sample with the bead while recording the force applied, as described in Alcaraz et al.