Delicate subject but can you help please? TMI warning

Hello again. Thank you lostmyspecs, it's always interesting to read of other experiences. It is a miserable condition that's for sure and I honestly hate to think of those who may be too embarrassed to ask for help. I'm glad that you found someone who took the time to listen and hope all is well at your next appointment.

Eglantine21, thank you for asking and I have to say you were spot on! I do indeed have a bacterial infection (makes me feel unclean despite my fastidious care!) and it looks as though Lichen Sclerosis could be involved perhaps related to an autoimmune disease I have. A real mess is how it was described. I have been prescribed a combined antibiotic/ steroid cream and need to look at using an emollient for cleansing and and as a barrier. It's not long since I was tested for infection - atrophy was diagnosed then. A lot for me to think about but thanks to all those who've posted

How did you get on starshine

I am sorry to hear you are having such a miserable time with vaginal atrophy which I have suffered from for about five years now, first diagnosed by specialist nurse at women's clinic, when I was attending for treatment of vaginal prolapse, diagnosed by GP. The nurse examined me, using a speculum, which was just about bearable as she was very gentle. She said the prolapse was minimal but she was more concerned with the thinness and paleness of the vaginal lining, which she said was caused by atrophy. She recommended Vagifem and also a vaginal lubricant (Sylk) and said she was reluctant to attempt to insert a ring pessary for the prolapse because of the fragility of the vaginal lining. However, I did ask her if she would try and this was unsuccessful due to the fact that the pain was so bad she did not want to continue. Since then I have used Vagifem every other night, have tried Sylk lubricant, Replens and Vagisan, but never with any great degree of improvement. I do hope the gynae you are seeing today will come up with help for you and hope you will post to let us know the outcome. I saw a new gynae three months ago, who took a very detailed history from me, and actually listened. He said he would not examine me that day but to return in three months, continuing to use the Vagifem, which I have done, and to be prepared for examination then. I see him next Thursday and will post an update afterwards. Regarding the soreness towards the perineum, there is a steroid cream (Dermovate) which you could ask your gynae about. Sorry for such a long post (and not to be more helpful!) but, as you said, this is not a condition that is openly discussed, we just "suffer in silence ". Nearly forgot, I did buy a book "Me and My Menopausal Vagina" by Jane Lewis - well worth a read! Good luck and will look out for your next post.

Good luck with your GP appointment- hope you get some answers

doubt don't

As far as I can tell, I doubt have any white patches but I know there is thickening of tissue. Praying for answers.

Thank you both! My appointment is this afternoon. I am dreading being examined as I am so very sore but I know it will have to be done. Really appreciate the advice and will mention LS for sure. Off to read up about it now.

Ask your GP to test for Lichen sclerosus. It's quite common and has symptoms exactly as you describe.
Easily emeliorated by cream on prescription.

It could also be a fistula (tiny abnormal opening). I hope the doctor can help and you'll be more comfortable soon.

Thank you both. Sorry I have had a rough day today but have an appointment tomorrow. I have been tested for infections already so will take it from there.

Humbertbear Im sorry to hear that you had problems and am glad you got some relief. Having read up more I'm wondering if it has to do with what I think is a prolapse or mild leakage (horrible I know) but thanks both for taking the time to reply.

Sounds like an infection of some sort, probably fungal or bacterial.

You can get a little kit from the chemist, a simple DIY test that will tell you what it is and then most remedies are available from the chemist.

Worth a try ?

I’m not sure if I can help but I had severe soreness in my vagina and it was caused by Liken Planus and was eased by steroid cream. I should add that this was diagnosed by my dentist. No, he didn’t look down there, but he diagnosed it in my mouth and when I looked up the symptoms I realised what was causing the soreness down below.
I hope you can get suitable treatment very soon.