When lichen sclerosus occurs in women it can create subtle changes in the vaginal tissues that are difficult to spot in the early stages. Left untreated, lichen sclerosus can alter the appearance of the genitals, but the condition can be managed successfully when diagnosed early.
What Is Lichen Sclerosus?
Lichen sclerosus is a benign, non-infectious skin disease that often affects the genitals. It is in the dermatoses category of skin conditions, which includes psoriasis, eczema, and seborrhea. Lichen sclerosus is generally not curable, but it can be effectively managed when diagnosed early.
What Are The Symptoms Of Lichen Sclerosus?
Itching of the external genitalia is the primary symptom of lichen sclerosus in women. The external genitalia includes the labia majora (large outer folds of the vulva), labia minora (small inner folds of the vulva), the clitoral hood (skin surrounding the clitoris), and vestibule.
Lichen sclerosus also causes white patches to develop on the skin around the vagina. The skin also becomes thin and crinkly and feels dry, tight, and sticky. Women with lichen sclerosus may also experience pain with intercourse.
Without treatment, lichen sclerosus can progress and cause the labia minora to fuse to the labia majora, which can ultimately alter the sensitivity of the clitoris.
Treating Lichen Sclerosus
The vaginal care experts at Fowler GYN International (FGI) treat mild to moderate cases of lichen sclerosus using specially formulated low dose corticosteroids. This medication is designed to prevent flare-ups of lichen sclerosus occurring.
FGI also recommends the use of hypocontactant skin care products for patients with lichen sclerosus. They recommend the FeminaRx Pure SkinCare Collection, which is specially designed for women with sensitive external genitalia skin.
Would you like to learn more about treatment for lichen sclerosus? Contact Fowler GYN International at www.fowlergyninternational.com, or by calling (480) 420-4001. FGI is located in Pheonix, AZ.