Chronic dermatological disease is common but remains unknown among health professionals and the population.
This Saturday, January 17th, marks World Human Rights Day. Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus.
Vulvar lichen sclerosus is a chronic dermatological disease which, despite being relatively common, is still very unknown among health professionals and the general population.
In Portugal, it is estimated that it affects around 1 in every 30 women, that is, around 180 thousand women in Portugal.
It is a number that reflects not only its prevalence, but also the impact profound impact on patients’ quality of life, reads a statement sent to ZAP.
Vulvar lichen sclerosus manifests itself through symptoms such as intense itching, pain, whitish and thin skin and genital discomfort, which in advanced stages can lead to significant anatomical changes and pain during sexual intercourse.
Delay in diagnosis, as in other diseases, is a central issue.
A presentation is varied, often confused with other vulvar pathologies (candidiasis or menopausal atrophy).
O Diagnosis can take up to 15 years.
And during this period, many women suffer unnecessarily preventable symptoms and progressive complications.
“Vulvar lichen sclerosus is a chronic condition that can have a devastating effect on the lives of those who live with it, physically and psychologically. The lack of recognition by many healthcare professionals contributes to unacceptable diagnostic delays. Our mission, especially on this World Day, is to raise awareness and encourage open and taboo-free conversations between women and their doctors” says Dr. Mónica Gomes Ferreira, specialist in gynecology and clinical director at ILIVE (Institute of Lichen Vulvar Sclerosus) by MS Medical Institutes.
