Which department should I go to for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 18, 2024
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Patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus generally visit the gynecology department of hospitals, as the diagnosis and treatment of this condition are considered a kind of complex gynecological issue. This disease generally cannot be treated in smaller hospitals, and better treatment is usually available in third-grade, class-A hospitals’ gynecology departments. The formation of vulvar lichen sclerosus is mostly due to poor nutrition of the vulva, so patients with this condition should definitely seek treatment at large, third-grade, class-A hospitals. The treatment can generally be conducted through physical methods or topical medications. During the treatment process, the majority of cases can experience symptom relief. Vulvar lichen sclerosus is generally benign, but in very rare cases, it may turn malignant. Therefore, patients with worsening conditions can undergo a biopsy in the hospital to determine if the lichen sclerosus is worsening or if there is a tendency towards vulvar cancer. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What ointment to apply for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus clinically manifests as localized whitening of the vulvar skin color, accompanied by itching, which can be severe. Patients with severe conditions typically find it difficult to achieve therapeutic effects with general medications, so it is crucial for patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus to visit a hospital for timely and appropriate treatment. The occurrence of vulvar lichen sclerosus is primarily due to local malnutrition and excessive keratinization of the vulvar skin. Therefore, patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus are generally considered to have a complex gynecological condition. This condition can be symptomatically treated with the ointment, bamboo red fungus cream, or by undergoing physical therapy in larger hospitals, which may include treatment with the Haifu knife. Therefore, it is essential for patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus to receive a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment in a hospital.

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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.

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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 Jia Rui
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is vulvar lichen sclerosus contagious?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus is non-contagious and cannot be cross-infected, but it is hereditary and can skip generations. Additionally, it is important to maintain hygiene during sexual intercourse, preferably using condoms, as this is beneficial for the condition. Furthermore, regular physical exercise should be undertaken to enhance the body's resistance and immunity. It is important to keep the area clean and dry, avoid using soap or irritating substances for cleansing the vulva, and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus, also known as lichen sclerosis, is one of two conditions, the other being epithelial hyperplasia, characterized by the appearance of white patches on the vulva. Both conditions are marked by severe itching as a common symptom, though they differ in subtle ways. For instance, in the case of lichen sclerosis, the affected skin and mucous membranes become less elastic and thinner, as seen with the shrinking of the labia minora. Women may experience a burning sensation locally and pain during intercourse. When epithelial hyperplasia occurs, the local skin and mucous membranes thicken, often showing scratch marks due to extreme itching.