Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Clinic
Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Clinic
Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Clinic in London
Expert Lichen Sclerosus Treatment from Experienced Consultant Gynaecologists
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the vulva and surrounding genital skin. It can cause persistent itching, soreness, burning, pain, and changes to the appearance of the vulval skin that may significantly affect everyday comfort, intimate relationships, and overall quality of life. If left untreated, lichen sclerosus can lead to progressive scarring, narrowing of the vaginal opening, painful sexual intercourse, difficulties with urination, and, in a small proportion of women, an increased risk of vulval cancer. Early diagnosis and specialist treatment are therefore essential to relieve symptoms, preserve normal vulval anatomy, and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
At Gynaecology Clinic London, our experienced consultant gynaecologists provide comprehensive assessment and specialist treatment for women with lichen sclerosus in a professional, supportive, and discreet environment. We understand that vulval symptoms can be distressing and difficult to discuss, which is why we take the time to understand your concerns, perform a thorough assessment, establish an accurate diagnosis, and develop an evidence-based treatment plan designed to control symptoms, protect your long-term vulval health, and improve your quality of life.
Whether you have recently developed persistent vulval itching or discomfort, have noticed changes to the appearance of your vulval skin, have been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus, continue to experience symptoms despite treatment, or would like a specialist second opinion, our consultants provide prompt access to expert diagnosis, effective treatment, and long-term follow-up to help keep your condition under control and prevent future complications.
Dr Luxmi Velauthar
MBChB, MRCOG, MD
Why Choose Gynaecology Clinic London?
Consultant-Led Care
Your assessment and treatment are provided by experienced consultant gynaecologists with expertise in vulval conditions, ensuring an accurate diagnosis, evidence-based treatment, and ongoing specialist management of lichen sclerosus throughout every stage of your care.
Comprehensive Assessment
We carry out a detailed assessment of your symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, and vulval skin to confirm the diagnosis, assess the severity of your condition, identify any complications, and develop the most appropriate treatment plan.
Evidence-Based Treatment
Our treatment recommendations follow current clinical guidance and the latest evidence, focusing on controlling inflammation, relieving symptoms, preventing progressive scarring, preserving normal vulval anatomy, and reducing the risk of future complications.
Ongoing Monitoring
Regular follow-up appointments allow us to monitor your response to treatment, review any changes in your symptoms or skin, optimise your management plan, and identify any suspicious changes requiring further assessment at an early stage.
Accepted by Major Health Insurers
We welcome both self-pay and insured patients and work with all major private health insurers where appropriate, helping make access to specialist assessment, treatment, and ongoing follow-up as straightforward as possible.
Fast Access to Appointments
Private care provides prompt access to specialist consultations, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term follow-up, allowing you to receive expert care quickly, begin treatment sooner, and maintain effective control of your condition.
Testimonials
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Expert gynaecological care tailored to your individual needs.
Book Your Consultation
Expert gynaecological care tailored to your individual needs.
Private Medical Insurance
At Gynaecology Clinic London, we aim to make access to specialist women’s healthcare as straightforward and transparent as possible. We welcome both insured and self-pay patients, and work with most major private medical insurers. Our team can provide guidance on appointments, insurance cover, and payment options, helping ensure the process is clear and supportive from the outset, so you can focus on your health and wellbeing with confidence.
Fees and Pricing
Clear and transparent pricing is an important part of planning your care. The following guide outlines our consultation fees. If further investigations, procedures, or treatments are recommended, these will be discussed with you in advance so that you fully understand the costs involved.
Initial
Consultation
£250
Your initial consultation includes a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms and medical history, along with any appropriate examinations, investigations, and treatment options. A personalised care plan will be developed based on your individual needs.
Follow-Up
Consultation
£200
Follow-up consultations provide an opportunity to review your progress, discuss investigation results, assess your response to treatment, and ensure your care plan continues to meet your needs.
What Is Lichen Sclerosus?
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the vulva and surrounding genital skin, although it can occasionally involve the skin around the anus and, less commonly, other areas of the body. The affected skin may become thin, pale or white in appearance, fragile, and prone to irritation or tearing, often causing persistent itching, soreness, burning, and discomfort. Although lichen sclerosus is not contagious or sexually transmitted, it can significantly affect everyday comfort, intimate relationships, and overall quality of life if left untreated.
Lichen sclerosus can develop at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in women after the menopause. The exact cause is not fully understood, although it is thought to result from a combination of immune system, genetic, and hormonal factors. While there is currently no permanent cure, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are highly effective at controlling inflammation, relieving symptoms, preventing scarring, preserving normal vulval anatomy, and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
Symptoms of Lichen Sclerosus
The symptoms of lichen sclerosus can vary considerably from one woman to another. While some women experience only mild irritation, others develop persistent itching, soreness, burning, or pain that can have a significant impact on everyday activities, sleep, exercise, and intimate relationships. Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time if the condition is not recognised and treated. As the condition progresses, some women also notice changes to the appearance, texture, or elasticity of the vulval skin, which can become increasingly fragile and uncomfortable. Early recognition of these symptoms is important, as prompt treatment can help relieve discomfort, prevent scarring, and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
Common symptoms include persistent vulval itching, soreness, burning, pain during sexual intercourse, discomfort when passing urine, fragile skin that bruises or tears easily, and smooth white or pale patches affecting the vulva. Some women may also develop cracks in the skin, minor bleeding, blistering, or scarring that changes the normal anatomy of the vulva, including narrowing of the vaginal opening. Because these symptoms can resemble thrush, eczema, dermatitis, or other vulval skin conditions, an assessment by an experienced consultant gynaecologist is important to establish an accurate diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment.
What Causes Lichen Sclerosus?
The exact cause of lichen sclerosus is not fully understood, but it is thought to result from a combination of immune system, genetic, and hormonal factors. Current evidence suggests that the body’s immune system may mistakenly attack healthy vulval skin, leading to chronic inflammation and the characteristic skin changes seen in the condition. Women with autoimmune disorders, including thyroid disease, vitiligo, alopecia areata, or type 1 diabetes, appear to have a higher risk of developing lichen sclerosus. Although it can occur at any age, the condition is most commonly diagnosed after the menopause, suggesting that hormonal changes may also play a role in its development.
Importantly, lichen sclerosus is not caused by poor hygiene, sexual activity, infection, or allergies, and it cannot be passed from one person to another. While there is currently no permanent cure, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are highly effective at controlling inflammation, relieving symptoms, preventing progressive scarring, preserving normal vulval anatomy, and reducing the risk of long-term complications. Regular follow-up also plays an important role in ensuring the condition remains well controlled over time.
When Should You Seek Specialist Advice?
Persistent vulval itching, soreness, burning, pain, or changes to the appearance of the vulval skin should never be ignored. Although these symptoms are not always caused by lichen sclerosus, they should be assessed by an experienced consultant gynaecologist to establish an accurate diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment as early as possible. Early specialist assessment is particularly important because untreated lichen sclerosus can lead to progressive scarring, narrowing of the vaginal opening, painful sexual intercourse, difficulties with urination, and an increased risk of long-term complications. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help relieve symptoms, preserve normal vulval anatomy, and reduce the risk of permanent tissue changes.
You should also seek specialist advice if you have previously been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus but continue to experience symptoms despite treatment, notice new or changing areas of skin, develop recurrent tearing, bleeding, or ulceration, or are concerned about any persistent vulval changes. Regular follow-up is an important part of managing lichen sclerosus, allowing your consultant to monitor your condition, optimise your treatment, and identify any changes that may require further investigation.
What Does Your Consultation Involve?
Your consultation begins with a detailed discussion about your symptoms, when they first developed, how they affect your daily life, and any previous treatments you have received. We will also review your medical history, current medications, menopausal status, and any autoimmune or skin conditions that may be relevant. We understand that vulval symptoms can be difficult or embarrassing to discuss, which is why we provide a professional, respectful, and confidential environment where you can speak openly about your concerns and ask any questions you may have. This comprehensive assessment helps us understand the severity of your condition and ensures we recommend the most appropriate treatment for your individual needs.
Your consultant will then perform a careful examination of the vulval skin to identify the characteristic features of lichen sclerosus and assess whether there is any evidence of scarring or other changes requiring further investigation. In some cases, a small skin biopsy may be recommended if the diagnosis is uncertain or if there are areas of concern that need to be examined more closely. Once your assessment is complete, we will explain the diagnosis clearly, discuss your treatment options, provide practical advice on long-term management, and develop an individual follow-up plan to help keep your symptoms under control and protect your long-term vulval health.
How Is Lichen Sclerosus Treated?
The primary treatment for lichen sclerosus is a high-potency topical corticosteroid ointment, which is highly effective at reducing inflammation, relieving symptoms, and preventing further damage to the vulval skin. When started early and used correctly under specialist supervision, treatment can significantly improve itching, soreness, and discomfort while helping to prevent progressive scarring and preserve the normal anatomy of the vulva. Your consultant will explain exactly how and when to apply the medication, how long treatment should continue, and how your response will be monitored over time to ensure the best possible outcome.
In addition to prescription treatment, we may recommend regular use of emollients to moisturise and protect the skin, avoidance of irritants such as perfumed soaps, bubble baths, and scented hygiene products, together with practical measures to minimise friction and irritation. If symptoms persist despite treatment, scarring has already developed, or there are areas requiring further investigation, your consultant will discuss any additional treatment options and arrange appropriate long-term follow-up to help keep the condition well controlled and reduce the risk of future complications.
Long-Term Management and Follow-Up
Lichen sclerosus is a chronic condition that usually requires lifelong management, even when symptoms are well controlled. Although treatment is highly effective at reducing inflammation and relieving symptoms, the condition can flare up if treatment is stopped or not used as advised. Ongoing management focuses on maintaining healthy vulval skin, preventing progressive scarring, preserving normal vulval anatomy, and reducing the risk of long-term complications. Regular follow-up also provides an opportunity to review your symptoms, answer any questions, and ensure your treatment continues to meet your individual needs.
During your follow-up appointments, your consultant will assess your response to treatment, examine the affected skin where appropriate, and adjust your management plan if necessary. Long-term monitoring is particularly important because women with lichen sclerosus have a small increased risk of developing vulval cancer. Regular specialist review helps identify any suspicious skin changes at an early stage, ensuring they can be investigated promptly while helping you maintain good long-term vulval health and quality of life.
Book Your Lichen Sclerosus Consultation
If you have persistent vulval itching, soreness, burning, or changes to the appearance of the vulval skin, have been diagnosed with lichen sclerosus, continue to experience symptoms despite treatment, or would like a specialist second opinion, our experienced consultant gynaecologists provide expert assessment, evidence-based treatment, and long-term follow-up to help relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and protect your long-term vulval health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can lichen sclerosus be mistaken for another condition?
Yes. The symptoms of lichen sclerosus can be similar to those of thrush, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, or other vulval skin conditions. Because treatment differs depending on the underlying cause, an assessment by an experienced consultant gynaecologist is important to establish an accurate diagnosis.
What are the first signs of lichen sclerosus?
Many women first notice persistent vulval itching, burning, soreness, or smooth white patches affecting the vulval skin. Some may also experience pain during sexual intercourse, recurrent skin tearing, or discomfort when passing urine.
Is lichen sclerosus contagious?
No. Lichen sclerosus is not contagious, is not caused by an infection, and cannot be passed to another person through sexual contact or everyday contact.
How is lichen sclerosus diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually made following a specialist consultation and examination of the vulval skin. In some cases, a small skin biopsy may be recommended if the diagnosis is uncertain or if an area requires further investigation.
Can lichen sclerosus be cured?
There is currently no permanent cure for lichen sclerosus. However, with appropriate treatment and regular follow-up, most women achieve excellent long-term control of their symptoms and significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Will I need long-term treatment?
Most women benefit from ongoing maintenance treatment to keep inflammation under control and reduce the risk of symptoms returning. Your consultant will advise the most appropriate treatment plan and review it regularly to ensure it continues to meet your needs.
Does lichen sclerosus increase the risk of vulval cancer?
Yes. Women with lichen sclerosus have a small increased risk of developing vulval cancer. This is why regular treatment, self-awareness of any new skin changes, and ongoing specialist follow-up are important for maintaining long-term vulval health.
Can I still have sex if I have lichen sclerosus?
Many women continue to have a normal sex life once their symptoms are well controlled. If lichen sclerosus is left untreated, it can cause pain during sexual intercourse and, in some cases, scarring that narrows the vaginal opening. Early treatment helps relieve symptoms and preserve normal vulval function.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. Many women choose to self-refer for a private consultation. Referrals from GPs and other healthcare professionals are also welcome.
How quickly can I be seen?
We provide fast access to consultant-led assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing follow-up, allowing you to receive expert advice and begin appropriate treatment without unnecessary delays.
Our Professional Associations
At Gynaecology Clinic London, we are proud to be associated with leading professional organisations in gynaecology, obstetrics, and fetal medicine. These affiliations reflect our commitment to clinical excellence, evidence-based care, and staying at the forefront of women's healthcare.
Our Locations
Our consultants see patients across leading private hospitals and clinics in London, including Harley Street, Canary Wharf, and The Portland Hospital. These locations provide access to high-quality facilities, advanced diagnostics, and specialist women’s healthcare within comfortable and modern clinical settings.
10 Harley Street
Central London
10 Harley Street,
London,
W1G 9PF
Portland Hospital
Central London
The Portland Hospital,
212 Great Portland St,
London,
W1W 5QN
LycaHealth
Canary Wharf
1 Westferry Circus,
Canary Wharf,
London,
E14 4HA