Some patients who visit Life Studios for lichen sclerosus treatments do so because they’ve noticed patches of thin, white skin on their body. The condition can be very frustrating for the patient because it’s not very common and doesn’t get the same attention in popular culture – so a patient can feel like they’re struggling in isolation. Further, lichen sclerosus can have a wide range of ramifications if left untreated.
For example, patients who are suffering from lichen sclerosus are generally at higher risk of developing skin cancer. Additionally, when patches of white, thin skin develop near the genitals, an individual’s sex life can be significantly affected, leading to painful sex, and even creating an aversion to intercourse altogether.
Why Lichen Sclerosus Occurs
Lichen sclerosus is an autoimmune skin concern that creates patches of white, thin skin on the body. As the condition progresses, the body creates scar tissue in the area.
Lichen sclerosus can manifest on any part of the body, including arms, legs, and back. However, the most common places where thin, white patches develop are on the skin of the vulva, as well as the foreskin of the penis. Patients can also develop the issue around the anus.
Although lichen sclerosus affects both men and women, postmenopausal women are at greatest risk of this problem.
In addition to the thin, white patches of skin, the patient will typically develop other symptoms, including:
- Itching
- Pain
- Tearing of the tissue
- Bleeding
- Blistering
- Ulcerations
Is Lichen Sclerosus Contagious?
No, lichen sclerosus is not contagious. Although patients can initially think that it’s an STD, the problem does not spread through sexual intercourse. It is an autoimmune condition that originates within your body’s own processes.
Treating Lichen Sclerosus
It’s vital to treat lichen sclerosus because the severity of symptoms can increase over time and lead to a number of secondary problems:
- Extremely painful sex for women, as the vaginal opening may narrow due to scarring.
- Blistering may develop on the genitals, to the point that even slight pressure causes severe pain.
- The risk of cancer increases on parts of the body where lichen sclerosus patches are present.
- Severe lichen sclerosus can make erections painful for uncircumcised men, and also lead to pain during urination.
The good news is that the issue can be addressed with professional treatments. Here at Life Studios we’ve helped many patients treat this problem with minimally-invasive procedures that have no down time. Some of the options include:
- Custom compounded bio-identical and anti-inflammatory creams that can be used to decrease lichen sclerosis symptoms.
- Life Studios providers are also at the forefront of treating lichen sclerosis with the MonaLisaTouch Laser. Where hormonal and steroid creams have served as a band-aid on the problem, MonaLisa Touch laser has served to address the underlying problem. You will need to consult one of our providers to see if you are a candidate for this type of therapy.
Working with the compassionate and caring providers of Life Studios, many patients can significantly reduce symptoms and reclaim their sense of self.
Personalized Lichen Sclerosus Solutions
When you visit Life Studios for lichen sclerosus treatments, you will immediately notice the compassionate atmosphere we have fostered here for our patients. Further, our providers work very hard to give each patient a personalized solution, based on the patient’s unique needs.
For example, we will first ensure that the condition is indeed lichen sclerosus, conducting a biopsy if necessary. When the condition has been confirmed, your provider will suggest a number of treatment options to reduce discomfort and scarring, based on how far the issue has progressed.
Give us a Call!
The expert providers at Life Studios are here to help you. Just give us a call at (916) 797-1878, or use the contact form to send us a note.