Lichen sclerosis is a condition that affects post-menopausal women. Usually, it presents itself as the development of thin, white skin around a woman’s genitalia. As you can probably imagine, this condition can be incredibly uncomfortable. However, a lichen sclerosus specialist Northern Virginia can help.
Symptoms of Lichen Sclerosis
Do you suspect that you might have lichen sclerosus? Here are some common symptoms:
- Bleeding, bruising, and tearing of the skin
- Pain during intercourse
- Thin skin that tears easily
- Bright red or purple bruising
While it is possible for lichen sclerosus to occur in men and children, it is incredibly rare. It most often appears on the genitals of post-menopausal women, though it can also develop on their breasts and arms.
FAQ About Lichen Sclerosus in Vienna
What Causes Lichen Sclerosis?
As we mentioned, lichen sclerosus most often occurs in post-menopausal women. While it might be related to hormonal imbalances or a faulty immune system, the exact cause is unknown. It is not contagious and often develops in areas where scarring or skin trauma previously occurred.
How is Lichen Sclerosis Treated?
Here at The Menopause Center, we provide a steroid cream that relieves pain and discomfort caused by lichen sclerosus. As treatment continues, the amount of cream needed gradually decreases. We recommend in-office visits every six to eight weeks at first, then every three months until the disease is controlled with maintenance.
Who is at risk?
You may be at greater risk if you have an autoimmune disease such as:
- Autoimmune-related thyroid disease
- Autoimmune-related anemia
- Vitiligo
- Type 1 diabetes
- Alopecia areata
How is lichen sclerosus diagnosed?
After asking about your health history and symptoms, your provider will perform a physical exam. This is usually enough for diagnosis but in some cases, you may need a skin biopsy.
Is it contagious?
No, lichen sclerosus is not contagious. You can’t catch it from someone else.
How is lichen sclerosus treated?
There are several treatment options including:
- Steroid injections
- Low dose Tricyclic antidepressants
- Other medications
- Ultraviolet light treatment (done when other treatments fail)
What are the possible complications of lichen sclerosus?
In women, this condition may slightly increase the risk of squamous cell skin cancer. Men with lichen sclerosus on the penis may also have an increased risk. Additionally, untreated lichen sclerosus may permanently change the look of your genitals. The vagina’s opening may narrow, the outer and inner lips of the vulva may stick together and require surgery to correct. For men, the foreskin may scar and shrink. In both men and women, the condition can cause pain during sex.
How can I cope with having lichen sclerosus?
Good hygiene is important to reducing some of the symptoms. Additionally, your provider will likely recommend that you:
- Avoid scratching the area
- Don’t wear pantyhose (wear thigh-high stockings instead)
- Choose cotton underwear instead of synthetic underwear
- Wear loose-fitting pants or skirts instead of tight-fitting pants
- Avoid using scented soaps, detergents, or bubble baths
- Don’t apply soap directly to your genitals
- Use your fingertips and not washcloths for washing the vulva
- Pat the vulva dry after washing, and don’t rub
- Don’t use feminine sprays or douches
Top Lichen Sclerosis Specialist Northern Virginia
It is important to remember that lichen sclerosus is a chronic disease. However, working with an experienced lichen sclerosus specialist Northern Virginia can greatly relieve your symptoms.s
In addition to providing steroid creams, The Menopause Center provides advanced Mona Lisa Touch laser therapy for lichen sclerosus patients. If you have patches of thinning skin around your genitals, contact our team for a consultation. We’d love to help you achieve the comfort you deserve.