Does vulvar lichen sclerosus affect pregnancy?

Written by Zhao Li Li
Obstetrics
Updated on September 21, 2024
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Normal vulvar leukoplakia does not affect pregnancy. Vulvar leukoplakia is mainly caused by long-term inflammation of the vulva, leading to abnormal proliferation of the local skin. After confirming the situation of vulvar leukoplakia, it is still necessary to treat it according to the specific nature of the vaginal secretions. Firstly, control of vaginal inflammation is necessary to reduce the incidence of vulvar leukoplakia and the tendency towards malignant diseases. If vulvar leukoplakia persists, it may lead to malignant lesions of the local skin. Therefore, appropriate treatment should be administered timely after confirmation.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Which department should I go to for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Patients with vulvar lichen sclerosus generally visit the gynecology department of hospitals, as the diagnosis and treatment of this condition are considered a kind of complex gynecological issue. This disease generally cannot be treated in smaller hospitals, and better treatment is usually available in third-grade, class-A hospitals’ gynecology departments. The formation of vulvar lichen sclerosus is mostly due to poor nutrition of the vulva, so patients with this condition should definitely seek treatment at large, third-grade, class-A hospitals. The treatment can generally be conducted through physical methods or topical medications. During the treatment process, the majority of cases can experience symptom relief. Vulvar lichen sclerosus is generally benign, but in very rare cases, it may turn malignant. Therefore, patients with worsening conditions can undergo a biopsy in the hospital to determine if the lichen sclerosus is worsening or if there is a tendency towards vulvar cancer. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician, and do not self-medicate.)

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Written by Niu Hai Jing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Can vulvar leukoplakia be cured completely?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus cannot be cured. Vulvar lichen sclerosus is also known as vulvar sclerosis and is mainly characterized by atrophy, thinning, and depigmentation of the vulvar and perianal skin, turning it white. The symptoms mainly include vulvar itching and a burning sensation. Sometimes the skin may appear shiny, wrinkled, and less elastic, which can also lead to cracking and peeling. Treatment generally involves local medications and is primarily supported by physical therapy. While most treatments are effective, they are not curative and require repeated therapy.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What ointment is good for vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus is considered a complex gynecological condition. Typically, the condition has a long history and there are no specific effective drugs. The relatively better treatment options currently include the use of Bacterium anitratum ointment for symptomatic treatment. It is best to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis to confirm whether it is vulvar lichen sclerosus. If confirmed, topical Bacterium anitratum can be used, along with microwave laser treatment for symptomatic relief. In terms of traditional Chinese medicine, treatments that clear heat, remove dampness, and stop itching can also be used for symptomatic treatment. It is a complex condition that is difficult to treat. Clinically, it is essential to actively seek symptomatic treatment at hospitals for vulvar lichen sclerosus. Routine care should include wearing pure cotton underwear, avoiding harsh cleansing agents or intimate products, and washing daily with plain water, followed by the application of Bacterium anitratum ointment.

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Written by Yan Qiao
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to restore the color of vulvar leukoplakia

The treatment of vulvar lichen sclerosus is generally quite challenging. However, symptoms can be alleviated by some symptomatic treatments. Firstly, it is important to keep the affected area clean and dry. Attention should be paid to avoid spicy and allergenic foods, and not to wash the vulva with irritating drugs or soaps. Wearing non-breathable synthetic underwear should be avoided. Additionally, topical corticosteroid medications can be used to control itching. However, it takes a long time for the affected skin to show significant improvement or return to normal. If medication treatment is not sustainable or effective, local physical therapy can be recommended. This involves removing abnormal epithelial tissues locally and destroying nerve endings in the dermis, thus interrupting the vicious cycle caused by itching and scratching. For patients who do not respond to medication or physical therapy, or those with atypical hyperplasia or potential malignant changes, surgical treatment can be recommended. However, surgery is generally considered a last resort due to the possibility of long-term recurrence and significant trauma, affecting both the appearance and function of the vulva.

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What are the symptoms of vulvar lichen sclerosus?

Vulvar lichen sclerosus, also known as lichen sclerosis, is one of two conditions, the other being epithelial hyperplasia, characterized by the appearance of white patches on the vulva. Both conditions are marked by severe itching as a common symptom, though they differ in subtle ways. For instance, in the case of lichen sclerosis, the affected skin and mucous membranes become less elastic and thinner, as seen with the shrinking of the labia minora. Women may experience a burning sensation locally and pain during intercourse. When epithelial hyperplasia occurs, the local skin and mucous membranes thicken, often showing scratch marks due to extreme itching.