Lichen Sclerosus

How do I manage the condition?

Managing Lichen Sclerosus / Lichen Planus / Chronic Lichen Simplex involves good self care. This is to help you:

• reduce relapses to less than three a year if managed well
• prevent adhesions or scar tissue
• prevent it turning into cancer - the chance of it turning into cancer is rare

What is my treatment plan?

Steroid Cream / Ointment

Month 1
Use 1 fingertip of cream / ointment every night for 1 month

Month 2
Use 1 fingertip of cream / ointment every other night for 1 month

Month 3
Use 1 fingertip of cream / ointment twice a week for 1 month

Month 4
Use 1 fingertip of cream / ointment once a week as maintenance

If relapse occurs, go back to month 1 and start again.

Aqueous Cream

Use this cream as a wash - can be very slippery - be careful, especially when using in the bath or shower.

Hydromol Cream

Use this cream as a barrier. Use every day, at least twice a day. Apply when you are dry. This keeps the skin softer and can help separate the labia (lips). There is no limit to how often this cream can be used.

If you need repeat prescriptions or any more medication, please contact your GP.

If you have any concerns or queries you can contact Gynaecology at Greenoaks on 01709 427641, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 1pm on Fridays.

Lichen sclerosus - patient information leaflet
Version: 2.0
Date of review: August 2023
Date of next review: August 2025
© The Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust