Vulval & Vaginal Disorders
About Vulval & Vaginal Disorders
There are many vulval and vaginal conditions that cause women a lot of distress. These may include vulvodynia (vulval pain), vulva infections ie. Candida (thrush) or bacterial vaginosis and vaginal atrophy (vaginal dryness due to menopause) plus many more. These conditions should not be shied away from and can be easily treated and managed effectively.
A consultation will usually involve history taking, a pelvic examination with a urine test and swabs (if necessary). Some conditions may warrant a vulvoscopy (visualisation of the vulva and vagina under a microscope) to exclude any pre-cancerous changes to the vagina or vulva. In some cases a biopsy is taken to exclude any pre-cancerous changes.
Information about Lichen sclerosus
What is Lichen sclerosus
Is an inflammatory condition which affects the skin around the vulva and anus. It affects 1 in 80 women. It causes the skin to become pale, white and thickened. It commonly arises after the age of 50yrs but can arise at any age.
What are the symptoms of lichen sclerosus?
Chronic itching of the vulva or anal area
A change in your vulva skin appearance becoming white and pale
Pain or ulcer formation
What causes Lichen sclerosus?
It is not clearly understood, but it is thought to be an auto-immune disorder. Where the body’s immune system becomes confused and attacks your skin instead of protecting it.
How is it diagnosed?
By clinical assessment of the vulva with a camera “vulvoscopy”.
A solution of acetic acid is placed on the vulva and on occasion a small vulva biopsy is taken to confirm the diagnosis.
How is it treated?
Unfortunately there is no cure for Lichen sclerosus.
The mainstay of treatment is to help reduce / relieve symptoms, and this is primarily done with steroid ointment.
Other recommendations is to avoid all irritants ie. Talcum powder, creams, shaving, chlorinated swimming pools etc.
What follow up is recommended?
4% of women with lichen sclerosus can develop vulva cancer.
Because of this yearly surveillance with a vulvoscopy is recommended to identify any potential early lesions.
If at any time you are worried due to a flare up or an ulcer prior to your next appointment you can always contact to be reviewed earlier.