Lichen Sclerosus

Lichen Sclerosus otherwise known as LS is a skin condition affecting mainly the vulval area.

It is not contagious and not caused by poor hygiene. The cause is not quite understood, it’s thought it might be an autoimmune disease, causing the immune system to mistakenly attack and damage your skin.

It can cause white/silver, shiny skin, that is itchy. Some people experience worse itching at night. It can also cause cuts, blisters and pain. Easily damaged skin is closely associated with LS. It can also cause red, inflamed skin. Some women with LS can develop vaginal atrophy (erosion of the vulva/loss of vulval architecture). Many women have difficulty having sex. LS can also affect the anus.

LS can be associated with vulval cancer, but this is rare and thought to affect only 4% of sufferers.

LS can impact individuals mental health. Coming to terms with the condition, the worries of the condition, anxieties about the future of the condition, along with the symptoms and impact to their life. This can lead to many of these women suffering with anxiety and depression.

Symptoms and severity vary from person to person

Some people can have LS on other body parts, men can also have LS too, although it is more common in women, especially during and after menopause, but can affect anyone at any ages. LS can also affect children especially around puberty.