This is a painful sore skin condition that presents as shiny white patches on the external genitals, anal and perineal areas. It is very itchy and the skin is very thin and fragile. 1% of UK women suffer with this condition. Men and children can suffer too but it is much more common in women. In some cases, the vulva can close up completely or change shape. In 33% of cases anal skin involved making defecating painful.
Symptoms: painful sex, increased risk of infections due to fragility of skin, extremely itchy and sore, pain upon urinating or menstruating, disturbed sleep as the irritation and itchy is very persistent.
The cause is unknown but it possibly is auto-immune. 25-33% of sufferers also suffer with another auto-immune disease such as vitiligo, thyroid issues, or pernicious anaemia. Conventional treatment options are topical steroid creams but these can take more than 12 weeks before any benefit is felt.
Here are my 5 top tips for Lichen sclerosis:
- Herbs.
Red clover can be used as an external cream, herbal tincture or taken as a tea. It is very soothing for sore skin, anti-inflammatory, contains isoflavones and phytoestrogens. Agnus castus is another good herb for balancing female hormones which may help here too.
- Supplements and diet.
Omega 3 is fantastic at ‘moisturising’ the body from the inside. Magnesium is also good here. Make sure you get it transdermally, so Epsom salt footbath or magnesium cream. Avoid gluten as it is inflammatory and mimics the thyroid hormone too.
- Oatmeal bath.
Cut the foot off an old pair of tights. Put a generous handful of steel rolled oats in there and tie a knot at the top. Pop this in your bath as the oats will be soothing on the sore skin.
- Aloe vera gel.
100% pure aloe vera gel will be soothing and help with the itch when applied topically. Make sure your underwear is cotton and you are using unbleached sanitary products for less irritation and chemicals.
- Make your own spray.
Make up this spray and spritz down below, allowing it to dry on the skin:
1 capful of caster oil
8 oz of witch hazel
2 drops of tea tree oil
5 drops of lavender oil
5 drops of Vitamin E oil
My top homeopathic remedies here are: Berberis, Helonias, and Rad brom.
Homeopathy can be extremely gentle with this delicate and painful condition. Please do get in touch if you would like my help.
