Treatments for lichen sclerosus

Steroid creams and ointments

The main treatment for lichen sclerosus is steroid ointment or cream , which helps to control symptoms.

It should be applied regularly, but relatively sparingly, to the affected areas of skin. Your doctor will advise you on how much to use, how frequently, and for how long. Generally, a 30g tube should last around three months.

When used appropriately, the risk of side effects such as thinning of the skin is very low. However, if they dont help, other treatments may be suggested by a specialist.

Surgery

In a few cases, surgery may be needed to treat problems caused by lichen sclerosus.

For example, if the condition causes a woman's vaginal opening to become very narrow, affecting sex, an operation to widen it may be suggested.

Men or boys may need surgery to remove the foreskin ( circumcision ) if steroid ointments or creams dont help and the foreskin becomes severely affected. This can result in the condition settling fully.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018