Episode 43: Hope for Lichen Sclerosus Relief

If you’ve been told a genital rash or intense itching is “just a yeast infection,” but the typical treatment hasn’t worked, this episode is for you. Pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Alexandra DiGrado and relationship & sex therapist Dr. Rebecca Howard Eudy sit down to talk about lichen sclerosus, a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes patches of skin to become thin, white, crinkled, or scarred. It most commonly affects the genital and anal areas, but can also appear on other parts of the body. Lichen sclerosus is often misdiagnosed and mistreated because its symptoms can look and feel a lot like a yeast infection. This is a shorter episode, but an important PSA if you’ve been dealing with symptoms that won’t clear up, especially if they’re affecting your body image, sex life, and day-to-day comfort.What you'll learn:The autoimmune connection: Lichen sclerosus frequently overlaps with conditions like Hashimoto's, Graves' disease, and vitiligo.Who it impacts most: The average age of diagnosis is 51, most often in people with vulvas, although it can affect people of all ages and sexes.Impact on intimacy: How muscle guarding and scarring can affect sexual health, and tips to get relief.Finding the right care: Where to locate knowledgeable providers and support networks if your primary doctor lacks experience with the condition.Tune in if you've ever thought:"This itching and burning feels like a yeast infection, but Monistat isn't doing anything.”"Am I going crazy, or is my skin down there actually changing?”"I’m so self-conscious about how I look there - I can’t even imagine having sex right now.”Helpful resourcesThe Lost Labia Chronicles: Your one-stop shop for all things lichen sclerosus - Education and support resources for all your needs.Lichen Sclerosus Support NetworkDr. Jill Krapf and Dr. Andrew Goldstein’s free lichen sclerosus webinar, via The Center for Vulvovaginal DisordersFind a pelvic floor PT near you: pelvicrehab.com or Pelvic Global DirectoryConnect with us:Dr. Rebecca Howard EudyWebsite: rebeccaeudy.com Instagram: @rebeccahowardeudy Newsletter: Parents in Love SubstackDr. Alexandra DiGradoWebsite: bostonpelvicpt.com Instagram: @bostonpelvicpt Newsletter: Under the HoodUnder the Hood Podcast Instagram: @underthehooddocs Website: underthehoodpod.comYouTube: @underthehooddocs ***If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick rating or review. It takes just 30 seconds, but it's one of the best ways to help our show grow and reach even more people. Thank you for listening!