Some women consider lichen sclerosus an intimate condition so they are too shy or embarrassed to ask their doctor ‘How can I treat lichen sclerosus.’ They opt instead to self-treat with over-the-counter medications that are often ineffective. This is never recommended because complications can occur when lichen sclerosus is not treated promptly.
What Is Lichen Sclerosus?
Lichen sclerosus is a benign, non-infectious skin disorder that can affect the external genitalia. The external genitalia consists of the labia majora, labia minora, the clitoral hood, and the vestibule.
What Are The Symptoms Of Lichen Sclerosus?
The primary symptom of lichen sclerosus in women is itching of the external genitalia. This condition also makes the skin thin, shiny, wrinkly, and dry, and it becomes prone to developing fissures that can be caused by scratching, exercising, or sexual intercourse.
Doctors don’t understand the exact etiology of lichen sclerosus, but the disorder can be managed effectively when treated early. If the condition is left untreated it can lead to the fusion of the labia minora to the labia majora, which can eventually impact the sensitivity of the clitoris.
How Can I Treat Lichen Sclerosus?
Lichen sclerous can be treated with low dose corticosteroids, which is the method recommended by the experts in vaginal health care at Fowler GYN International (FGI). Corticosteroids are steroid hormones that lower inflammation in the body, and can help prevent the recurrence of the symptoms of lichen sclerosus.
FGI also advises patients with lichen sclerosus to use hypocontactant skincare products because they don’t contain irritating ingredients and fragrances. They recommend the FeminaRx Pure SkinCare Collection, which is especially beneficial for women with sensitive external genitalia skin.
If you would like to learn more about lichen sclerosus, contact Fowler GYN International at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001. FGI is located in Phoenix, AZ.