How to restore the color of vulvar leukoplakia

Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 05, 2024
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The treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus is generally quite challenging. However, symptoms can be alleviated by some symptomatic treatments. Firstly, it is important to keep the affected area clean and dry. Attention should be paid to avoid spicy and allergenic foods, and not to wash the vulva with irritating drugs or soaps. Wearing non-breathable synthetic underwear should be avoided. Additionally, topical corticosteroid medications can be used to control itching. However, it takes a long time for the affected skin to show significant improvement or return to normal. If medication treatment is not sustainable or effective, local physical therapy can be recommended. This involves removing abnormal epithelial tissues locally and destroying nerve endings in the dermis, thus interrupting the vicious cycle caused by itching and scratching. For patients who do not respond to medication or physical therapy, or those with atypical hyperplasia or potential malignant changes, surgical treatment can be recommended. However, surgery is generally considered a last resort due to the possibility of long-term recurrence and significant trauma, affecting both the appearance and function of the vulva.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What fruits and vegetables are good for lichen sclerosus of the vulva?

Currently, there is no clear cause for vulvar lichen sclerosus, and it is not related to diet. Therefore, you can eat any fruit and vegetable with vulvar lichen sclerosus; there are no dietary restrictions. Just like usual, eat fruits and vegetables, but try to avoid cold foods. The same applies to other foods. Just make sure not to be partial to any particular type of food. Vulvar lichen sclerosus should be treated symptomatically if symptoms are present. Most of the time, treatment can be chosen from traditional Chinese medicine.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvar leukoplakia heal by itself?

Vulvar leukoplakia cannot heal by itself. It is generally considered that the majority of vulvar leukoplakia cases are due to poor nutrition of the vulva. Currently, the treatment of vulvar leukoplakia is one of the more challenging conditions in gynecology, as there are no specific effective medicines for this disease. Treatment can generally be conducted through physical methods such as the HaiFu knife, but there are no special effective drugs for this treatment either. This can only control the condition, alleviate symptoms, and manage itching, but it generally does not achieve a complete cure for vulvar leukoplakia. Therefore, the possibility of self-healing of vulvar leukoplakia is even less likely; considering there are no effective drugs even with treatment, the likelihood of self-healing is not high. Thus, patients with vulvar leukoplakia must actively seek symptomatic treatment in hospitals to at least alleviate symptoms; otherwise, severe itching of the vulva can occur.

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Written by Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is good to eat for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar leukoplakia causes white lesions on the vulva, mainly manifesting as itching, increased discharge, and pain. It is one of the most common diseases in women, possibly caused by poor hygiene and a decrease in immunity. It is recommended to use medication or physical therapy for treatment. Pay attention to the hygiene of the vulva, change underwear frequently, and keep the area clean. Diet should also be light, avoiding spicy and irritating foods, and it is best to avoid eating potentially allergenic foods like shrimp and crab.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvar lichen sclerosus turn into cancer?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus is a condition characterized by white lesions on the vulva, which can potentially become malignant under long-term stimulation of vulvar lichen sclerosus. Currently, there are no specific effective medications for the treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus clinically. If a patient notices depigmentation in the vulvar area, it is imperative to seek immediate medical attention from a local hospital to confirm the diagnosis of vulvar lichen sclerosus. If necessary, a local biopsy of the vulva should be conducted to determine the presence of any malignant changes.

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Written by Hou Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does vulvar lichen sclerosus cause pain during intercourse?

Vulvar leukoplakia belongs to vulvar dystrophic diseases, and when accompanied by vaginal contraction, symptoms of pain during intercourse can occur. Therefore, when vulvar leukoplakia is discovered, it is necessary to actively cooperate with the doctor for treatment. Sometimes treatment with traditional Chinese medicine can be more effective, potentially slowing the progression of the disease and alleviating symptoms. Therefore, it is suggested that women with vulvar leukoplakia eat more foods rich in vitamins and fruits in daily life, which can sometimes help alleviate symptoms. Women with vulvar leukoplakia should avoid emotional fluctuations, especially when itching symptoms are pronounced, and try to avoid scratching with hands to prevent local infections.