Does vulvar lichen sclerosus cause pain during intercourse?

Written by Hou Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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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 Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What ointment is good for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus is considered a complex gynecological condition. Typically, the condition has a long history and there are no specific effective drugs. The relatively better treatment options currently include the use of Bacterium anitratum ointment for symptomatic treatment. It is best to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis to confirm whether it is vulvar lichen sclerosus. If confirmed, topical Bacterium anitratum can be used, along with microwave laser treatment for symptomatic relief. In terms of traditional Chinese medicine, treatments that clear heat, remove dampness, and stop itching can also be used for symptomatic treatment. It is a complex condition that is difficult to treat. Clinically, it is essential to actively seek symptomatic treatment at hospitals for vulvar lichen sclerosus. Routine care should include wearing pure cotton underwear, avoiding harsh cleansing agents or intimate products, and washing daily with plain water, followed by the application of Bacterium anitratum ointment.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is the heritability of vulvar lichen sclerosus high?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus has a hereditary tendency, but the chances of inheritance are not high. The formation of vulvar lichen sclerosus is generally related to the individual's nutritional status and vulvar care. The main causes of vulvar lichen sclerosus are poor nutrition in the vulvar area, usually in patients with improper vulvar care, or patients with some other diseases, who exhibit significant vulvar itching. At this time, it is generally necessary to go to the hospital for a diagnosis of lichen sclerosus. If it is vulvar lichen sclerosus, it is mostly benign, with very few cases having a tendency to malignant transformation. Therefore, patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus must go to the hospital for a diagnosis and then receive treatment based on the examination results. There is no specific effective medication for this treatment, which belongs to a category of complex gynecological conditions. The effectiveness of this treatment is not very good, achieving relief from itching is already considered quite good. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, do not self-medicate.)

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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.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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How to treat vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus typically can be treated with medications, but surgery is also an option. Medication treatment usually involves the use of corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, and patients need to follow medical advice for treatment. Vulvar lichen sclerosus is a depigmentation disease characterized by white lesions on the vulva, the exact cause of which is unknown. Each patient's symptoms vary individually, hence treatment methods can differ. Vulvar lichen sclerosus generally arises from non-tumorous epithelial lesions of the vulva and is strongly associated with autoimmune diseases. Clinically it manifests as itching, dryness, and flaking of the vulva, along with a loss of skin pigmentation. Therefore, it is important to seek timely diagnosis and treatment from a dermatology department at a reputable hospital.

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Written by Niu Hai Jing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvar leukoplakia be cured completely?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus cannot be cured. Vulvar lichen sclerosus is also known as vulvar sclerosis and is mainly characterized by atrophy, thinning, and depigmentation of the vulvar and perianal skin, turning it white. The symptoms mainly include vulvar itching and a burning sensation. Sometimes the skin may appear shiny, wrinkled, and less elastic, which can also lead to cracking and peeling. Treatment generally involves local medications and is primarily supported by physical therapy. While most treatments are effective, they are not curative and require repeated therapy.