Diagnosing and Treating Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is defined as vulvar skin that appears white in color and is thinner than normal. Although it can affect any part of the body, it is more commonly found on the skin of the vulva, foreskin or around the anal area. This vulvar condition can be found in any age group but it is most commonly found in postmenopausal woman. It can cause severe symptoms. Treatment is typically warranted and without it, many women can suffer severe consequences. Sometimes the skin can return to the normal coloration and aggressive treatment may decrease risk of formation of scarring and firm fibrotic tissues.

The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is not fully understood; however, it is not an infectious disease and woman have not caught this disease from a sexual partner. Some recent evidence may link lichen sclerosus to an over active immune system. Hormone problems may also play a role. There is also emerging support that genetics may also play an important role in getting the disease. In other cases, previous scarring and injury may have played a role.

Symptoms
Lichen sclerosus on your vulvar area can lead to troublesome symptoms. Often woman can complain of severe burning, tenderness, itchiness, discomfort and painful intercourse, or dyspareunia. According to an article in the European Journal of Dermatology, women with a mild case may not even be symptomatic at all.

The majority is however, and the skin may appear patchy white, tear easily, and in some cases may bleed or appear ripped or torn. The skin may be waxy in texture. At the start of the disease, lichen sclerosus may appear as small irregular shaped whitish patches that are on the vulva. It can be anywhere on the vulva including the perineum and clitoris. Several areas may join together and then the skin may appear flattened and wrinkled. Some clinicians describe the crinkled and wrinkled skin as “cigarette paper-like.”

As a result of the disease, the clitoris may become completely covered and buried. The labia may shrink in size.

Tags

• Lichen Sclerosus
• Painful Sexual Intercourse
• Reproductive System
• Sexual Well-Being
• Skin, Hair & Nails
• Sex & Relationships
• Wellness

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