Discussing how steroids affect lichen sclerosus patients with Dr. Jill Krapf
14
Apr
By Kathy
Kathy Video

Discussing 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 sclerosis, 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 Sclerosis. 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…
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Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Series Part 2: Steroids
27
Mar
By Jaclyn Lanthier
Jaclyn Blog

Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Series Part 2: Steroids

Introduction Treatment is a fundamental piece of getting your symptoms under control and getting into remission. However, many doctors do not discuss treatment options with us, let alone how to use our treatment, and what the benefits and risks are. Therefore, I decided to start a treatment series on the blog where I go through different treatment options, what the science says about them, what the risks and benefits are, etc. This series starts with the gold standard for LS treatment; steroids. In my last post, I dicussed what lichen sclerosus is, why steroids are the gold standard treatment, what version is best, how often you should use them, and the best practice for the application. Read that post here. In today’s post, I review different side effects that *may* accompany steroid use and what you can do if they happen to you.  *This post is evidence-based; I draw on…
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Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Series Part 1: Steroids
13
Mar
By Jaclyn Lanthier
Jaclyn Blog

Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Series Part 1: Steroids

Introduction “You have lichen sclerosus. It’s considered autoimmune. You are at a slightly higher risk for developing vulvar cancer. There is no cure. Apply your steroids daily”. When I was diagnosed with LS, that is all the information and guidance I got from my general physician. “Apply your steroids daily” is vague and unhelpful. “How many times a day”, I wondered, “and where and how should I be applying the medication”?  Many of us aren’t given information about our treatment plan when we are diagnosed. Your treatment plan is one of the most fundamental pieces with respect to managing your symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, getting into remission, and reducing your chances of developing vulvar cancer.  So where is this information if the doctors do not give it to us? Part One of Ongoing Lichen Sclerosus Treatment Series & Disclaimer Well, I’ve spent the better part of two…
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How to Apply Topical Steroid Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus Correctly
04
Mar
By Kathy
Kathy Blog

How to Apply Topical Steroid Treatment for Lichen Sclerosus Correctly

If you’ve been diagnosed with Lichen Sclerosus, there’s a good chance you’ve been given a prescription for a steroid ointment or steroid cream. That’s because high-potency topical corticosteroids are the gold standard treatment for Lichen Sclerosus. Unfortunately, a prescription for topical steroids doesn’t usually doesn’t come with a lot of explanation on what it does or how to use it. This leads to a lot of confusion, a lot of questions, and a lot of misconceptions about the safety and effectiveness of steroids for LS.  That’s where my guest, Dr. Jill Krapf, comes in! Dr. Krapf is a researcher and Lichen Sclerosus specialist who works with The Centers for Vulvovaginal Disorders in Washington, DC. She’s an invaluable resource for those living with LS and helps them understand the condition and treatment. In this blog, we talk about how topical steroids help treat Lichen Sclerosus and how to use them properly.…
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