The symptoms can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and emotionally distressing—but with early diagnosis and the right treatment approach, symptoms can be managed, and long-term damage can be minimized.
At Complete Healthcare for Women in Richland, WA, Dr. Richard Lorenzo, D.O., and Kortney Jones, ARNP, provide compassionate, personalized care for women living with lichen sclerosis. Their goal is to relieve symptoms, restore comfort, and preserve the health of delicate vulvar tissues.
Lichen sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that causes thinning, whitening, and irritation of the vulvar skin. The condition is thought to have an autoimmune component and is most common in postmenopausal women, although it can affect women of any age.
Symptoms of vulvar lichen sclerosis include:
Intense itching or burning
Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
White, patchy areas of skin
Tearing or bruising of the vulvar tissue
Narrowing of the vaginal opening
Discomfort with urination or wiping
Over time, lichen sclerosis can lead to scarring, labial fusion, and structural changes to the vulvar anatomy if left untreated. While the condition is not contagious or life-threatening, it requires ongoing management and medical follow-up.
A diagnosis is typically made based on the appearance of the vulvar skin during a gynecologic exam. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions, especially when the diagnosis is uncertain or if there are changes that raise concern for vulvar cancer (a rare but possible complication).
At Complete Healthcare for Women, we provide sensitive, thorough evaluations in a supportive and private setting, ensuring your concerns are addressed with respect and care.
The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, prevent progression, and preserve the normal anatomy of the vulva. While lichen sclerosis is not curable, it can be very effectively managed with the right approach.
The gold standard for treating lichen sclerosis is high-potency topical corticosteroids, such as clobetasol. These medications reduce inflammation and prevent scarring. Regular, correct use can relieve itching, restore comfort, and often return the vulvar tissue to a healthier appearance.
Dr. Richard Lorenzo and Kortney Jones, ARNP, provide detailed instructions for steroid use, including how to apply it safely and when to reduce frequency to avoid side effects.
For postmenopausal women, vaginal estrogen therapy may be recommended in addition to corticosteroids. Estrogen helps improve vaginal tissue elasticity and moisture, which can be compromised due to both menopause and lichen sclerosis.
Topical estrogen may also help improve sexual comfort and reduce irritation, especially when used alongside other treatments.
Vulvar emollients, such as petroleum jelly, coconut oil, or prescription barrier creams, can soothe irritation, reduce friction, and protect delicate tissues. These can be used as daily maintenance alongside medical treatment to keep the skin soft and intact.
Emerging treatments such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections and laser therapy (like fractional CO2 or radiofrequency devices) show promise in improving the quality of vulvar skin and reducing inflammation in women with lichen sclerosis.
Though these therapies are still being researched, Complete Healthcare for Women stays up to date on non-hormonal, regenerative approaches and can help determine if you’re a candidate for advanced treatment.
Lichen sclerosis is a chronic condition that requires regular follow-up. Left untreated, long-standing inflammation may increase the risk of vulvar cancer. At Complete Healthcare for Women, we provide continuous care, monitoring for any concerning changes and adjusting treatment as needed.
Too often, women with lichen sclerosis delay care due to embarrassment or the mistaken belief that symptoms are “normal” with age. We want you to know that effective, non-surgical treatments are available, and compassionate support is just a phone call away.
If you’re experiencing vulvar itching, discomfort, or changes in skin appearance, Dr. Richard Lorenzo and Kortney Jones, ARNP can provide the expert evaluation and guidance you need.
Complete Healthcare for Women – Obstetrics and Gynecology
509-392-6700
Richard Lorenzo, D.O.
Kortney Jones, ARNP
