​Supporting a loved one with vulvar lichen sclerosus (VLS) can make a significant difference in their emotional and physical well-being. Partners, friends, and family members often play a vital role in fostering understanding, empathy, and practical assistance.

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1. Educate Yourself About VLS

Take the time to learn about VLS and how it impacts your loved one. Understanding the symptoms, potential triggers, and treatment options can help you approach their experience with compassion and sensitivity (Gutiérrez Ontalvilla, 2022).

• Tip: Read trusted resources, attend appointments with them (if they’re comfortable), and ask questions to better understand how you can provide meaningful support.

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2. Foster Open Communication

Living with VLS can lead to feelings of isolation, embarrassment, or frustration. Creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for your loved one to share their feelings is crucial.

• Tip: Ask how they’re feeling, listen without interrupting, and avoid offering unsolicited advice. Sometimes, just being a compassionate listener can be incredibly powerful.

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3. Support Sexual Health and Intimacy

For partners, it’s important to acknowledge and address the challenges VLS may create in physical intimacy, such as pain during sex or discomfort with body image. Open, honest communication about these topics can reduce tension and build trust.

• Tip: Be patient and reassure your partner that intimacy doesn’t always have to involve sex. Focus on emotional connection, and explore other ways to maintain closeness, like physical touch or spending quality time together (Bradford & Fischer, 2010; Yıldız et al., 2020).

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4. Provide Practical Assistance

Chronic conditions like VLS can make daily activities more challenging, especially during flares. Offering practical help shows your loved one they’re not alone in managing their condition.

• Tip: Help with tasks like picking up prescriptions, finding comfortable clothing, or arranging time for rest when symptoms are severe. These small acts of care can alleviate some of their stress.

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5. Encourage Professional and Peer Support

It’s important to encourage your loved one to seek professional help, whether from a healthcare provider, mental health counselor, or pelvic floor therapist. Peer support groups are also an invaluable resource, offering validation and shared experiences.

• Tip: Share information about support networks or attend a group session together (if appropriate), but let them decide when and how to engage.

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6. Be Patient and Empathetic

VLS is a chronic condition that comes with ups and downs. Your patience and empathy can provide a much-needed sense of stability and comfort.

• Tip: Remember that their experience with VLS may change over time, and your willingness to adapt and continue supporting them is key.

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Key Takeaway

Supporting someone with VLS is about being informed, patient, and compassionate. Whether it’s through practical help, emotional reassurance, or simply showing up as a listening ear, your support can help your loved one feel more empowered and less alone on their journey with VLS.

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References

• Bradford, J., & Fischer, G. (2010). Long-term management of vulvar lichen sclerosus in adult women. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 50(2), 148–152.

• Gutiérrez Ontalvilla, P. (2022). So, I have Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus. What do I do now? Independently published.

• Yıldız, S., et al. (2020). Vulvar lichen sclerosus and its effects on quality of life. International Urogynecology Journal, 31(3), 481–489.