You Deserve Answers – Let’s Start with the Basics

When you’re first told you have Lichen Sclerosus, it can feel like a tidal wave of unfamiliar terms, confusing instructions, and unanswered questions. You deserve better than that. You deserve to understand what’s happening in your body, what your diagnosis means, and how to take your next steps with confidence.

Let’s break down the fundamentals together.

What Is Lichen Sclerosus?

Lichen Sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the vulva, but can also appear around the anus or, less frequently, on other parts of the body. It causes thinning, irritation, and whitening of the skin, leading to discomfort and — over time — potential scarring or fusion of the tissue.

LS is not contagious, not a sexually transmitted infection, and not caused by poor hygiene. Most researchers believe it’s autoimmune in origin, meaning the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells. Hormonal changes (such as menopause), genetic factors, and trauma or friction to the area may also play a role.

Who Gets It?

Anyone can develop Lichen Sclerosus, but it’s most commonly seen in:

• Postmenopausal women
• Prepubescent girls
• Men (typically around the foreskin)
• People with other autoimmune conditions (like thyroid disease or vitiligo)

Many women with LS were told for years that their symptoms were due to age, hormones, or infections — when in fact, it was LS all along.

How Is LS Diagnosed?

Diagnosis should start with a visual examination of the vulva, done gently and respectfully. In many cases, an experienced clinician can diagnose LS based on appearance alone. Classic signs include:

• Thin, white, shiny patches of skin
• Loss of vulval structure (e.g. reduced labia minora)
• Tears or fissures
• Bruising or bleeding

Sometimes, a vulval biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions. This involves taking a small tissue sample under local anaesthetic.

What Does “Chronic” Mean?

“Chronic” simply means long-term. Lichen Sclerosus doesn’t currently have a cure, but it is treatable and manageable. With the right care, many people find that their symptoms improve significantly and that they can live full, comfortable lives.

The Goals of Treatment

The main goals of treatment are:

• Reducing symptoms like itching and pain
• Preventing flare-ups and long-term skin changes
• Protecting vulval structure and function
• Supporting emotional wellbeing and intimacy

We’ll explore all LS treatment options in detail in upcoming chapters, from NHS-prescribed steroid creams to advanced regenerative treatments like the O Shot and Morpheus8V.

You Deserve to Know the Truth

Too many people are left in the dark — given a name, but no guidance. That’s not good enough. You have the right to understand your condition, explore your options, and ask questions until you feel safe and informed.

In the next chapter, we’ll talk about how Lichen Sclerosus affects daily life — from self-esteem and intimacy to exercise and clothing choices — and how to adapt without losing yourself along the way.

Chapter 7: How LS Affects Daily Life, Intimacy and Confidence