This month I wanted to talk about a fairly uncommon condition called Lichen sclerosus. It causes patchy, white skin that is thinner than normal and most often involves the skin of the vulva. It can be extremely painful and although anyone can get it, post-menopausal women are at the highest risk.
The exact cause is not known but because it is more common after menopause it may be related to a lack of hormones in the affected area. The condition is not contagious and cannot spread through sexual intercourse. The most common complications are the persistent, uncomfortable itching and scarring in the affected area. In severe cases blistering creates pressure in the area that is unbearable.
The first thing to do is schedule an appointment with your doctor. They will perform a physical exam and may remove a small piece of tissue for biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Thankfully treatment is available that is usually very effective and helps ease the symptoms and discomfort right away. The most commonly prescribed treatment is corticosteroids ointments or creams. Some are commercially available and others are specially compounded. This usually involves applying it to the area for several weeks. After that you will likely need to continue to apply them a couple of times a week to prevent recurrence. Prescription estrogen creams are often used in conjunction with the corticosteroids to replace the hormone deficiency that is often the cause of the condition. The estrogen cream is vital to the treatment to keep the area healthy once it has healed.
Many women suffer in silence with this condition not realizing there is effective treatment available. If you have noticed any of these symptoms, see you doctor as help is available.
Best,
Brenda
About the Author
Brenda Houdlette
