'Mystery vagina pain was so bad I couldn't play with my toddler': Hidden health condition blights 3% of women
ok.co.ukDespite campaigns attempting to break the taboo of gynaecological health issues, many of us are embarrassed talking to our doctors and even our friends about problems “down there”.
So it’s little wonder that many women suffering from the little-known condition lichen sclerosus (LS) aren’t seeking help. LS causes itchy white patches on the vulva and anus, and predominantly affects older women, although children and men can also suffer.
Between 1-3% of UK women have the condition, but experts estimate the true prevalence is higher, because of under-recognition and under-reporting. “Many people haven’t heard of LS,” says Dr Charlotte Cassis, an NHS consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist. “As with so many female health issues, women don’t feel comfortable talking about things they feel are ‘embarrassing’ – such as itchy genitals.
We all spend lots of time looking after our facial skin, and yet tend to neglect our vulval skin,” she adds. “What’s more, lichen sclerosus has been associated with permanent scarring, increased problems urinating and having sex, psychological distress and a general decreased quality of life.
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