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DiscussionTrying to connect with Lichen sclerous and vulvar cancer women.
Gynecologic Cancers | Last Active: Jun 29 12:53pm | Replies (52)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Just wondering how you are doing? Were you using anything over the counter for your lichen..."
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@andwho Hello there. I have LS. It has been 28 years now since a suspected diagnosis by my gynecologist (of many years) at my annual visit then a confirmation biopsy. I was also diagnosed with vaginal atrophy related to peri (soon complete) menopause at that time as well. At first I was put on a very potent vaginal estrogen from horse hormones but it made my breasts swollen and heavy and felt crampy like I was going to get my period. After doing extensive research I refused to continue with that medication and refused the Clob as well. I asked for Estrace and a less potent steroid and my (long standing older male) gyno hit the roof and copped an angry attitude.
I found a younger female gynecologist connected to a large teaching hospital and my experience was totally different. She listened to my concerns and agreed prescribing Estrace and later compounded Estrace without the chemical additives which were irritating my delicate LS skin. She explained the options of a steroid in consideration of the vaginal atrophy. In addition she referred me to an oncology gynocologist a professor and research fellow as well as clinician. Also a very different experience than my original gynecologist.
The oncologist gyno advised that it was my option as to whether to use a steroids as long as I did not have any itching. He said that without the itching not using a steroid would not effect my overall cancer risk factor. The side effects of the steroid over the years could exacerbate and increase the thinning of the skin (vaginal atrophy) causing tearing, I opted to stick with just the compounded estrogen and go for regular checks at the cancer center every six months so to catch anything early. So far so good. I feel very fortunate.
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