116 - Painful Sex: The Story of Lichen Sclerosus, a Shockingly Under-Diagnosed Post-Menopause Skin Condition, Part 1

Let's talk about a surprisingly common skin condition that impacts women after menopause: Lichen sclerosus. It's a chronic inflammation of the skin which creates a pathological change at the vaginal entrance. These skin changes are often underdiagnosed and even misdiagnosed, sometimes even for years.

This debilitating skin condition can cause persistent and uncomfortable itching, white patches on the skin, and may also result in thinning of the skin. It can cause a disappearance of sensitive skin areas where certain tissue areas fuse. The skin can also crack, resulting in irritation and pain.

Many women, after visiting their gynecologist, are shocked to find out their doctor missed their lichen sclerosus diagnosis. Often this means they've suffered with the symptoms for years without knowing the root cause of their issues. Unfortunately, the reality is many doctors mistake this condition for atrophy during menopause.

If you're experiencing painful sex, this skin condition is something worth investigating—especially if the initial stages of intimacy and penetration is where the discomfort happens. This condition is diagnosed through a skin biopsy. For accurate results, you'll have to ask your doctor specifically to rule out lichen sclerosus.

There are many skin disorders that can create inflammation and skin changes of the vaginal area. Many are accompanied by dryness and hinder the act of sexual penetration. Telling a woman to simply use a lubricant is subpar medical care, as it's an important part of a woman's wellness and life.

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