In honor of Lichen Sclerosus Awareness Month, we wanted to highlight what people who suffer from this condition experience and what can be done to manage it. Early diagnosis and optimal management can drastically improve outcomes and quality of life. This blog will explore what lichen sclerosus is, how it presents, and your options for treatment.
What is Lichen Sclerosus (LS)?
LS is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is relatively rare. It results in areas of patchy, white skin. These areas can be sore and itchy and can result in tissue weakening and bruising. In severe cases, the tissue becomes very frail and can tear. In women, these skin patches are usually present around the vulvar and perineal area (area between the vagina and the anus). And in males, it can appear around the foreskin and head of the penis. This condition can occur in waves, where there are periods of no symptoms and periods of it returning. Over time if left unmanaged, permanent scarring can result, which in females can result in stiffening and narrowing of the vaginal and anal openings. This can create a host of pelvic floor issues such as excessive muscle tension, pain with intercourse, and change in bladder/bowel habits and function.
What Causes LS?
It is not entirely clear what causes this skin condition; however, some known risk factors are stress, age, gender (post-menopausal women), history of autoimmune disease(s), hormonal imbalances, and previous trauma to the skin around the genitals.
What are the Treatment Options?
Due to the nature of this condition, treatment should include monitoring the condition throughout the lifespan. Currently, the best course of action is to treat with corticosteroids and protect the tissue during flare-ups. Oral immunosuppressant medication is also an option for severe cases. In rare cases, surgical removal of the tissue is an option, especially for males, since the foreskin can be more easily removed.
Aside from medical management, pelvic floor physical therapy can also be beneficial to keep the tissues and muscles as relaxed, healthy, and strong as possible. Making sure there is balance at your pelvis and throughout the rest of your body is also key to preventing excess tissue strain in the affected area.
Contact us today to learn more about lichen sclerosus and how we can help you manage it!
For more reading on lichen sclerosus please see the following resources:
Lichen Sclerosus Support Network
Lichen Sclerosus: Body, Mind & Spirit Practices to Heal the Stress of LS
Lichen Sclerosus Diet: A Beginner’s 3-Week Guide for Women, With Curated Recipes and a Sample Meal Plan
