How steroids affect lichen sclerosus patients with Dr. Jill Krapf

Join me in the second part of this conversation with Dr. Jill Krapf, LS specialist; researcher; author; and educator, about her research review, "Topical Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Review of Pharmacokinetics and Recommended Dosing Frequencies." When evaluating treatments for lichen sclerosus, one must consider all variables involved for optimal application. In this review article, the authors explore the science of the skin and the effects of inflammation, as well as the absorption of the medication. However, with limited research guiding us, the answer remains scattered and uncertain, leaving us with more questions than answers. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the effectiveness of topical steroid treatments in managing Lichen Sclerosus. Understand skin absorption concerns and dosages when using steroid treatments. Uncover truths about the myths surrounding the long-term side effects of steroid use. Grasp the significance of adhering to proper steroid application guidelines. Delve into alternative treatment options beyond steroid usage for Lichen Sclerosis. My special guest is Dr. Jill Krapf Dr. Jill Krapf is a renowned researcher, author, vulvar specialist, and educator with a passion for helping patients suffering from Lichen Sclerosus. Her extensive knowledge and experience in the field make her an invaluable resource for those seeking guidance on steroid treatments for Lichen Sclerosus. Dr. Krapf's dedication to uncovering the most effective methods of treatment has led her to conduct in-depth research on the impact of steroids on Lichen Sclerosus patients. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Dr. Krapf is an ideal guest to shed light on this complex topic and provide much-needed answers to those affected by this condition. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction, 00:02:26 - Types of Research, 00:07:45 - Purpose of the Review, 00:13:08 - Absorption of Topical Steroids, 00:15:57 - Understanding Lichen Sclerosis Skin, 00:17:42 - Interpreting the Effects of Inflammation on Skin, 00:19:27 - Burnt Out Lichen Sclerosis and Hyperpigmentation, 00:22:05 - Risks of Topical Steroids, 00:25:48 - Thinning of the Skin, 00:31:57 - Misuse of Steroids, 00:33:23 - Side Effects of Steroid Use, 00:36:02 - Tapering Medications, 00:37:37 - Current Steroid Use Guidelines, 00:39:32 - CO2 Laser and Steroid Injections, 00:43:05 - Conclusion, Check out all the ways Lichen Sclerosus Support Network can help you at lssupportnetwork.org. Resources: Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: Current Perspectives  https://www.vulvodynia.com/assets/files/ijwh-191200-vulvar-lichen-sclerosus-current-perspectives.pdf Topical Corticosteroids in the Treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: A Review of Pharmacokinetics and Recommended Dosing Frequencies https://vulvodynia.com/assets/files/Lichen-Sclerosus.pdf Center for Vulvovaginal Disorder http://cvvd.org LSSN Blogs: How to Apply Topical Steroid Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus Correctly https://lssupportnetwork.org/applyproper  Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Series Part 1: Steroids  https://lssupportnetwork.org/steroids1  Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Series Part 2: Steroids  https://lssupportnetwork.org/steroids2 LSSN Video: Unraveling the Mystery of Lichen Sclerosus Treatment with Dr. Jill Krapf https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtFse-rcRwI How to Apply Topical Steroid Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus Correctly https://lssupportnetwork.org/drjill Connect with us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lichensclerosussupportnetwork/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lichensclerosussupportnetwork/ Website: https://lssupportnetwork.org/ Loved this episode? Make a donation to help us create new content. https://lssupportnetwork.org/donateMentioned in this episode:Finally Get Clear Answers About LS, Menopause, and Your TreatmentIf you’ve ever found yourself listening to this podcast searching for answers… trying to figure out why your body feels different… why your treatment isn’t working… or whether this is menopause, lichen sclerosus, or something else entirely… You’re not alone. And more importantly— you’re not the problem. Most people with LS are left trying to piece together a care plan from short appointments, conflicting advice, and hours of searching like this. That’s exactly why we created the Wholistic Healing Summit. This free, live event (May 11–15, 2026) brings together 12+ leading specialists to help you finally connect the dots between your symptoms, your treatment, and your next steps. Inside the summit, you’ll get answers to questions like: Why does my treatment stop working? Is this LS progression… or hormonal change? What order should I actually be using my medications? How do I navigate intimacy, pain, and changing skin? And if you choose to upgrade, you’ll also get access to exclusive Q&A sessions, where you can hear real questions from people just like you… and get expert answers you’d normally wait months (and pay hundreds) for. This is where the guessing stops. 👉 Register here: https://lssupportnetwork.org/whs If you’re tired of second-guessing your care… this is your next step. P.S. If you’ve ever wished you had more time with a specialist or left an appointment with unanswered questions, the All-Access Pass gives you direct access to expert Q&As you can revisit anytime.