DON’T SUFFER IN SILENCE WITH THIS ITCH

TWO weeks ago I wrote about common causes of feminine itching, such as yeast infections and dermatitis.

Since then, I’ve been inundated with letters highlighting another common, more serious cause: lichen sclerosus.

Many of you told of its detrimental effect on every aspect of life – from work, to social life, to romantic relationships. Symptoms include inflamed patches of very fragile, itchy and pale skin around the vulva.

Once diagnosed, it can be effectively tackled with a steroid cream or pills, under the care of a dermatologist.

Without treatment the discomfort can be debilitating and – going by your letters – it is often poorly recognised by some doctors.

Many women said they felt embarrassed to seek help.

If you have it, ask for a referral. Don’t suffer in silence with this.