Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the genital and anal areas, although it can occur in other parts of the body as well. The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune response, genetic factors, and hormonal imbalances. This condition is not contagious and cannot be transmitted through contact.

The most common symptoms of lichen sclerosus include:

Itching
Intense itching in the affected areas, which can be persistent and bothersome.

White Patches
The skin may become thin, white, and shiny in appearance. The affected areas may appear wrinkled or have a crinkled texture.

Discomfort or Pain
Lichen sclerosus can cause discomfort, pain, or a sensation of tightness, especially during sexual intercourse or urination.

Inflammation and Bruising
In severe cases, the affected skin may become inflamed, swollen, and more prone to bruising.

Lichen sclerosus can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. The persistent itching and discomfort can cause physical and emotional distress. The condition may affect sexual activity, leading to pain or difficulty with intercourse. It can also cause anxiety, self-consciousness, and decreased self-esteem. However, it’s important to remember that effective treatments are available to manage lichen sclerosus and alleviate its impact on daily life.

Complications of lichen sclerosus can lead to several complications that may affect your comfort and overall well-being. These complications can include:

Skin Tears
Due to the thinning and fragility of the affected skin, it may be more prone to tears or injuries. This can cause discomfort, pain, and potential for infection.

Scarring
Over time, lichen sclerosus can lead to scarring in the affected areas. Scarring can cause further tightening and discomfort, affecting mobility and sexual activity.

Urinary or Sexual Difficulties
In some cases, lichen sclerosus can impact urinary function, leading to difficulties with urination or increased frequency. It may also cause pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, affecting intimacy and quality of life.

Emotional and Psychological Impact
Dealing with chronic symptoms, discomfort, and changes in appearance can have an emotional and psychological impact. It may lead to feelings of self-consciousness, anxiety, or decreased self-esteem.

While lichen sclerosus cannot be cured, various treatment options can help manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life. These may include:

Topical Steroids
Corticosteroid creams or ointments are commonly prescribed to reduce inflammation, itching, and discomfort associated with lichen sclerosus. These medications help to normalize the affected skin and alleviate symptoms.

Moisturizers
Regular use of gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers can help keep the skin hydrated and reduce itching and dryness.

Hormone Creams
For women, estrogen or testosterone creams may be prescribed to restore hormonal balance and improve the health of the affected skin.

Innovative treatments
newer emerging treatments such as injections, and microneedling are showing very promising results that are far superior than creams alone.

Ongoing Monitoring
Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor the condition’s progress, adjust treatment as needed, and address any concerns or new symptoms that may arise.

At the Women’s Wellness service we are now able to offer innovative treatment options to help improve Lichen sclerosus.

Using combinations of injectables, radiofrequency and microneedling we are able to offer far superior results than traditional creams. Contact us to book in for a detailed consultation.