Lichen sclerosis

Lichen sclerosis (LS) is a non-infectious inflammatory skin disorder which affects the vulval and perianal skin (around the anal opening). It tends to affect women in their middle years (around 50) but young women, children and men can also get it. If it affects other parts of the body it is known as 'extra genital LS'.

Symptoms include itchy, sore and inflamed vulval skin which cracks, causing additional pain and stinging. The skin becomes pale and parts of the vulva (lips, clitoris) can shrink and fuse together. Not everyone affected with LS will experience all these symptoms.

Because a GP may not be familiar with this condition, it can be misdiagnosed as thrush or believed to be related to the menopause or hormonal problems. Referral to a dermatologist, gynaecologist or vulval clinic is advisable. Once diagnosed (usually after taking a small piece of skin under local anaesthetic) LS is treated with a strong steroid cream, usually greatly improving symptoms, although unfortunately it can flare up again at a later date. Women with LS should avoid anything that could irritate the vulval skin.