Patient's question:
At first, I didn't feel anything uncomfortable, but recently, during intimacy with my husband, I've found it very dry, and I've always felt itchy externally. After a check-up, they said it's leukoplakia of the vulva. I'm not very familiar with this condition. Could you please tell me: what specific harms does leukoplakia of the vulva cause?Doctor's answer:
Hello, patients with leukoplakia of the vulva often experience itching, dryness, hardness, and burning-like pain in the vulvar area. Focal or diffuse white thickened plaques may reappear on the labia majora/minora, perineum, or around the anus, with rough surfaces, cracks, and ulcers. In some cases, the skin and mucosa may become thin, lose elasticity, and the labia majora/minora may become significantly enlarged or even disappear. Vulvar atrophy can sometimes also lead to difficulties during labor. In addition to local symptoms, systemic symptoms such as irritability, chest tightness or palpitations, shortness of breath, general weakness, decreased appetite, insomnia, frequent dreams, lower back and waist pain, chills, and sexual apathy may also occur. For patients with leukoplakia of the vulva, in addition to oral medication, it is also important to pay attention to self-care, such as maintaining hygiene during treatment and keeping the private area clean at all times. Finally, female patients are advised to undergo regular follow-up examinations!