Replied By Rita (United States) on 05/22/2014
I have noticed a lot of comments about artificial sweeteners being suspect. Not true in my case. I am 45 years old and have always avoided artificial sweeteners due to the controversies. I have found that less sugar, in general, has helped with mine. When I was first diagnosed, I was given Clobetasol. At the time, my vulva had scarring but nothing like it does now. I won't be graphic but I do believe the steroid cream/ointment is what has caused even more narrowing/scarring at my vaginal opening and various other important areas. I also, strongly believe, I have an undiagnosed thyroid issue.Replied By Lynn (California) on 07/23/2014
Rita...for scarring: have you ever been offered estrogen cream (estradiol--prescription only in the U.S.) to apply to the scars? I have been reading that many people have seen their scars "break up" with the use of the cream. It doesn't matter what your age..even young children have shown improvement with it's use. It's not enough hormone to be absorbed by the body or change your own hormones. It's just a small amount rubbed into the scarred area. Do a search for Lichen Schlerosus and Estrogen Cream.Replied By Elizabeth (New Zealand) on 02/27/2015
I don't know what the relationship is but I have flare ups if I drink sweet soda whether artificially sweetened or not, organic or the usual. I haven't noticed any other strong correlations.