If you have been experiencing ongoing itching, soreness or changes in your skin area down below you might be feeling confused especially as there are two common, often misunderstood conditions, Lichen Sclerosus (LS) and Lichen Planus (LP). They can both cause very similar symptoms, especially around the vulva, but they are not the same, and getting clarity is the first step toward relief. These symptoms can also begin to appear around the time of the menopause.
I work with women and often see the emotional toll these conditions can have. The first thing to understand is that both conditions are different and symptoms will be experienced differently.
So what are the difference between the two?
What is Lichen Sclerosus (LS)
This is a chronic skin condition that affects the vulva and anal area. The skin can become:
- White
- Shiny or thin
- Tightly stretched
You may feel:-
- Intense itching
- Burning or tearing
- Discomfort during sex
- Scarring with possible fusing of skin over time
What is Lichen Planus (LP)
This is a skin condition that can affect skin in several places, such as the mouth, nails and genitals. When it affects the vulva the symptoms will be:-
- Itching or soreness
- Stinging during urination
- Painful sex
- Oral discomfort or mouth ulcers
As you can see from the above the symptoms are quite similar but there are differences:-
The differences
| Lichen Sclerosus | Lichen Planus | |
| Location: | Vulva, anus | Vulva, mouth, skin, nails |
| Skin appearance: | white, thin, crinkled | Red/purple patches or lacy thin white lines |
| Itching: | Severe | Moderate to intense |
| Scarring / Fusing: | Common if untreated | Less common |
| Mouth involvement: | Rare | Common |
| Vaginal involvement: | Uncommon | More common |
How homeopathy can help
If you suspect you have one of these conditions homeopathy can help give relief and emotional support. I've helped many women to feel more comfortable and reducing their symptoms significantly.
Some homeopathic remedies that can help are:-
Homeopathic remedies for Lichen Sclerosus
- Graphites - cracked, itchy or thickened skin that may ooze slightly
- Thuja - white patches, dryness with a history of suppressed infections
- Nit Ac - splitting, stinging pains with fragile skin
- Sepia - dryness, low libido, irritability, especially in menopause
- Kreosotum - raw, sensitive burning skin that is eroding
Homeopathic remedies for Lichen Planus
- Sulphur - itchy, red, irritated skin worse from heat or bathing
- Merc Sol - Painful oral ulcers with a metallic taste
- Nat Mur - Lacy white patches, dryness, grief and emotionally reserved
- Rhus Tox – Itchy skin worse at night, better with warmth and movement
- Borax – Painful oral ulcers, especially in the mouth or on / around the vulva
Encouragement
Both LS and LP are chronic conditions and can be difficult to treat without the help of a professional. I have helped many women with these symptoms and each one has been prescribed different remedies and all have seen good and lasting results.
When I work with someone I carefully choose and prescribe remedies based on their unique case taking into account lifestyle, how it is impacting their life and much more. I then carefully choose and prescribe remedies based on the consultation.
Living with a chronic skin condition in an intimate area can be isolating and overwhelming but you don’t have to be “stuck with it”. With the right support and remedies there is hope for easing your symptoms and reclaiming comfort and confidence in your body once more.
I offer a free 20 minute call to anyone thinking of working with me so if you would like to talk to me please book your call and we can talk everything through.