Menopause brings lots of changes, including mood shifts, hot flashes, and a dramatic drop in estrogen. However, for some women, there’s an additional and often overlooked challenge: vaginal lichen sclerosus.
If left untreated, this condition can cause scarring. Unfortunately, this can make intimacy and other day-to-day activities uncomfortable.
Now, here’s what you need to know about how vaginal lichen sclerosus complicates menopause as well as information for how to find expert care.
How Vaginal Lichen Sclerosus Complicates Menopause: The Connection
One of the biggest factors that makes this condition more complicated during menopause are the hormonal shifts.
Lower estrogen levels often lead to thin, dry vaginal tissue, which amplifies the symptoms of lichen sclerosus. Many women chalk it up to being a normal part of menopause without knowing there’s a separate condition at play.
Recognizing the difference between typical vaginal dryness and lichen sclerosus is the first step in getting the relief you need.
So, Here is How and Where to Find Expert Care
Finding the right vulva doctor can make a world of a difference in getting the diagnosis and treatment you need.
So, how do you find expert care? Start by looking for a doctor who specializes in vulvar disorders.
You can start by asking your primary care doctor, your gynecologist, or you can check online directories of doctors who are members of the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) and the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD).
Another place to find expert care is your social network. So, ask friends and family members if they have a doctor they recommend.
Now, It’s Time To Take Back Your Comfort and Confidence
You don’t have to navigate the symptoms of menopause and vaginal lichen sclerosus alone. Fortunately, with the right expert care, you can find relief and protect your long-term health.
For quality care, choose Tyson’s Gynecology. Contact us today at 703-991-6806 today to book an appointment.