Lichen Sclerosus and Menopause: Understanding the Connection and Raising Awareness

Let's break the silence and focus on destigmatising Lichen sclerosus.

Do you know what lichen sclerosus is? It’s a condition that affects your skin, causing white spots and patches of smooth, sometimes thin and crinkled, or shiny tissue on different parts of the body. It can be painful and very itchy. Unfortunately, it primarily occurs during menopause due to changing hormone levels leaving many women to suffer in silence because they may not even realise they have it. That's why it's important to be aware of what this condition is and why it’s more common during menopause. It is thought that hormones may play a role in its development. Specifically, the decrease in estrogen levels during menopause may contribute to the onset of the condition. The good news is while there’s no cure for lichen sclerosus yet, awareness can lead to proper diagnosis so affected individuals can start getting treatment right away. In this blog post let’s take a closer look at what exactly lichen sclerosus is and why it’s more common in menopausal women so we all may become better informed about how to help those dealing with this issue.

Definition of Lichen sclerosus and what it looks like.

Lichen sclerosus is a chronic skin disorder that most commonly affects the genital area, although it can also occur on other parts of the body. It is characterized by patches of shiny, white, thin skin that can appear wrinkled and smooth. The affected areas may also feel itchy, sore and painful. While the exact cause of lichen sclerosus is unknown, it's thought to be related to an overactive immune system. It's important to get a proper diagnosis and treatment from a dermatologist or gynecologist, as untreated lichen sclerosus can lead to complications such as scarring and discomfort during sex. Fortunately, with proper treatment, most people with lichen sclerosus can manage their symptoms and lead a normal, healthy life.

Risk factors for menopause-related Lichen sclerosus

While it can occur in both genders, women are ten times more likely to develop the condition than men. Additionally, menopause-related lichen sclerosus is a particularly common presentation. The exact cause of lichen sclerosus remains unknown; however, there are a few risk factors that have been identified. For example, individuals with autoimmune disorders such as thyroid disease, vitiligo or lupus are more prone to developing lichen sclerosus. Furthermore, the condition is more common in individuals with a family history of the disease.

Management options for Lichen sclerosus

Although the condition is not contagious or life-threatening, it can cause significant discomfort and affect a person's quality of life. Management options for lichen sclerosus include topical treatments, such as steroid creams, as well as lifestyle changes, such as wearing loose-fitting clothing and avoiding irritants. In some cases, surgical interventions may be recommended. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for each individual case, as well as to monitor the condition for any changes or complications.

Reasons why proper diagnosis from your doctor is important

When it comes to our health, few things are as crucial as receiving an accurate diagnosis from our doctor. Not only does it ensure that we receive appropriate treatment, but it can also prevent unnecessary procedures, medications or surgeries. A proper diagnosis can help determine the root of a problem, allowing us to address the underlying issue rather than simply treating the symptoms. Lichen Sclerosus can have similar symptoms to a yeast infection and can sometimes be misdiagnosed.

How to support friends and family suffering from Lichen sclerosus during menopause

Lichen sclerosus during menopause can be a tough condition to navigate for both the sufferer and their loved ones. However, being there to offer emotional support and understanding can make a world of difference. Encourage open communication and lend a listening ear when they need to talk about how their symptoms are affecting their daily life. Helping to research potential treatments or doctors who specialise in the condition can also be incredibly helpful. If your loved one is in a lot of discomfort, consider helping out with daily tasks, such as shopping or cleaning, to reduce their stress levels. Remember that this is a chronic condition that may require ongoing support, so it's important to keep reaching out and checking in with them over time.

 It is essential to raise awareness of Lichen sclerosus and the impact it has on women during menopause. All too often, Lichen sclerosus is misdiagnosed, or worse yet goes undiagnosed entirely which can have a huge negative impact on women going through the menopausal transition. By understanding the symptoms associated with Lichen sclerosus, we can better support our friends and family suffering from this condition. Furthermore, by having an open dialogue about our individual experiences we can address some of the stigma and confusion surrounding this skin disease.

Let's work together to end the stigma and silence around Lichen sclerosus, empower those suffering from it, and provide more information to support their struggle.

Finally, if you are struggling with your menopausal journey why not book a free call with me and discuss how I can help. Please use the below link to book a free call today.