Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic skin condition primarily involving the genital area. Most individuals are curious: does vulvar lichen sclerosus smell? If you have LS, you might notice some changes in your skin, but LS itself does not immediately result in an odour.
Nonetheless, some individuals with LS develop a change in odour from infection, skin irritation, or poor hygiene. In this blog, we will discuss what LS is, what can cause a smell, and how to control it.
What is Lichen Sclerosus?
Lichen sclerosus is a skin disorder that leads to white patches, itching, and skin thinning. It primarily occurs in the genital area but may occur in other areas of the body as well. Typical symptoms of LS are:
- Itchy and tender skin.
- White, thin, or shiny spots.
- Painful urination or sex.
- Easy bruising or skin tearing.
While LS can be uncomfortable and irritating, it generally does not smell. However, individuals with LS may experience an odour in some instances, generally due to other reasons.
Understanding Causes of Genital or Vaginal Odour
The genital region naturally has a smell, which can vary with hormones, diet, or hygiene. Occasionally, an unusual odour is an indication of some other issue. These are some of the frequent reasons for genital odour:
Normal Body Odour
The vagina has a normal mild odour because of healthy bacteria. Sweat and dampness can also result in mild odours. Moreover, normal genital odour varies according to hygiene and lifestyle.
Bacterial or Fungal Infections
Having a vaginal infection also changes how it smells. Here is how the odour changes according to infections:
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): Produces a fishy odour, usually accompanied by discharge.
Yeast Infections: These can have a yeasty or sweet odour, with itching and white discharge.
Fungal Infections: Can produce a musty odour, particularly in warm, humid places.
Poor Hygiene or Moisture Buildup
Not washing the genital area properly can trap sweat and bacteria. Wearing tight, synthetic underwear can trap moisture and create odour.
Sometimes, Urine leakage, which is common in LS, occasionally causes a bad odour.
Does Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus Smell?
Is there a smell to lichen sclerosus? Lichen sclerosus does not produce an odour itself, but certain factors associated with LS may result in a smelly vagina, including:
- Topical Treatments: Steroid creams and moisturisers used to treat LS occasionally have an odour.
- Secondary Infections: If the LS skin is broken down, bacteria or yeast infections may develop, which can cause odour.
- Urine Leakage: If LS impacts the vulva or penis, urine dribbling can result, which creates an unpleasant odour.
- Increased Moisture: Irritated or damaged skin may secrete more, sometimes leading to a different smell.
What to Do if You Notice Smelly Lichen Sclerosus?
If you have LS and experience a strong, ongoing vaginal odour, you should determine the cause.
Here’s what to do:
- Check for Other Symptoms: If you have discharge, itching, or burning, infection could be the reason.
- Check Your Hygiene Regimen: Use mild, unscented products and dry the area carefully.
- Examine Your Treatments: Some ointments or creams may smell. If a new treatment is causing a change, discuss it with your doctor.
- Consult a Doctor: If the odour is pungent, fishy, or painful, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
Managing Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus Smell with Hygiene Habits
Good personal hygiene is important in controlling LS and avoiding odours. These are some suggestions:
- Shower with warm water and fragrance-free soap or mild cleanser.
- Dry the area with a pat rather than rubbing to prevent irritation.
- Wear clean underwear every day and wear breathable cotton clothes.
- Do not douche or use scented products that can upset the natural balance.
- Apply prescribed treatment as instructed to avoid flare-ups.
Treating LS Smell, Itching & White Patches on Vulva
Many patients look for success stories on how I cured my lichen sclerosus, but the key lies in the right medical treatments and management strategies. Although LS is incurable, suitable treatment can stop symptoms and delay complications. When LS causes odour because of infections or skin inflammation, treatment helps to ease it. The following are some ways of treating it:
Topical Steroids
They are the initial treatment for LS. They are anti-inflammatory drugs that suppress inflamed, itchy skin and irritations.
According to the prescriptions, proper usage might help ease worse symptoms and even encourage healthy long-term skin without any odour.
Moisturisers
Hydration of the skin is essential to relieve LS. Moisturising prevents skin dryness, thinning, and discomfort, making daily activities easier.
Hormone Creams
Creams containing oestrogen or testosterone may enhance the elasticity of thinning skin. They also prevent white patches of vulvar skin and replenish moisture, particularly for postmenopausal women.
A doctor will advise on whether hormone therapy is appropriate for you.
Injectables
NewGyn polynucleotide is a new injectable treatment that revitalises the skin at a cellular level. It deeply hydrates tissues, improves skin elasticity, and aids tissue regeneration, which enhances vaginal and vulvar skin elasticity and decreases discomfort.
Radiofrequency
FormaV is an Empower RF tool which utilises radiofrequency energy to promote collagen production. The heat revitalises vaginal and vulvar tissues, enhancing elasticity, hydration, and overall symptoms. It aids in skin dryness and pain with intercourse.
Microneedling
Morpheus8 V is another Empower RF tool which merges microneedling and radiofrequency technology to restore thinning skin. Morpheus8 V is the best Lichen sclerosus treatment. It erases white patches and regains elasticity by initiating the body’s healing response.
Final Thoughts
Lichen sclerosus itself does not directly create an odour, but related issues like infection, leakage of urine, or local treatments might produce changes in smell. Practising good hygiene, proper treatments, and seeing a doctor if necessary can prevent and alleviate symptoms and keep you comfortable. If you experience a pungent or unusual odour, don’t hesitate to see a doctor to exclude infections or other causes.
FAQs
1. How do you clean with lichen sclerosus?
Use an emollient soap substitute, rinse with lukewarm water, and gently dab dry. Avoid harsh soaps and perfumes.
2. What does a severe case of lichen sclerosus look like?
It starts as small, pink or white bumps that turn into wrinkled, white patches. The skin becomes thin, itchy, and may bleed easily.
3. What is the end stage of lichen sclerosus?
Severe scarring can occur, leading to pain, discomfort, and difficulty with urination or intercourse.
4. What foods should I avoid with lichen sclerosus?
Avoid spinach, canned pineapple, dried fruit, bran flakes, soy flour, and high-oxalate foods, as they may worsen symptoms.
