Lichen Sclerosus Podcast
Kathy Ruiz-Carter
Recent Episodes
Bonus Alert until April 28: Check out the bonus 14 video replays from past summits that come with the Wholistic Healing Summit All-Access pass. https://lssupportnetwork.org/whs
Join us for this informative panel discussion on lichen sclerosis and sexual health. Hosted by Kathy Ruiz-Carter, we have a talented group of experts: patient advocate Jaclyn Lanthier, gynecologist Dr. Suzanne Weber, and pelvic health physical therapist Dr. Mamawah Bourque.
We cover key topics like LS treatment and management, tips for engaging in sexual activity, managing symptoms during menstruation, considerations around pregnancy, and more. The panel shares practical guidance grounded in both clinical expertise and lived experience. You'll discover helpful insights on using steroids, alternate therapies, dilator work, lubricants, vulvar care, pelvic floor health, open communication with partners, and listening to your body's needs.
We also talk about emerging research on LS progression and hormonal connections. Whether newly diagnosed or a long-time LSer, you'll find empowering takeaways to improve your sexual health and approach LS management more holistically. We hope you feel encouraged in your journey toward remission and pain-free intimacy.
Let us know in the comments what resonated most or what additional questions you have! And don't forget to check out the bonus 14 video replays from past summits that come with the Wholistic Healing Summit All-Access pass. https://lssupportnetwork.org/whs
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Understand how to manage lichen sclerosus during pregnancy for a smoother journey.
- Discover practical tips for maintaining sexual health while dealing with vulvar lichen sclerosus.
- Learn effective strategies for comfortable bike riding despite lichen sclerosus symptoms.
- Explore the benefits of pelvic floor therapy in managing lichen sclerosus symptoms.
- Uncover the hormonal effects on lichen sclerosus symptoms and how to mitigate them.
My special guest is Jaclyn Lanthier, Suzanne Weber, and Mamawah Bourque.
The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introducing the National Vova Awareness Day event.
00:03:24 - LS progression and management.
00:07:33 - Natural and maintenance options for LS treatment.
00:12:07 - Treating different areas of the genitals.
00:15:26 - Personalized application of treatment.
00:16:32 - Importance of Physical References
00:17:51 - Engaging in Sexual Activity with LS
00:21:16 - Transitioning from Dilator Work to Penetration
00:23:54 - Approaching Sexual Activity with LS
00:28:24 - Managing Pain and Burning After Sexual Activity
00:32:42 - Managing Burning Sensation and Pain after Sex
00:33:50 - Wholistic Healing Summit
00:34:58 - Gynecologist Approach to Burning Sensation and Pain after Sex
00:36:09 - Enhancing Genital Arousal and Lubricant Recommendations
00:42:59 - Impact of Lichen Sclerosis on Pregnancy
00:49:02 - Perineal Massages and Breathing Techniques during Pregnancy
00:52:21 - Impact of BLS on Pregnancy and Postpartum
00:54:27 - Menstruation and LS Symptoms
01:00:58 - Hormonal Component and Moisture Management during Menstruation
01:03:18 - Treating Anal LS and Anal Fissures
01:05:32 - Managing Anal LS Symptoms
01:08:36 - Tips for Bike Riding with LS
01:11:05 - Pelvic Floor Stretches
01:13:19 - Wholistic Healing Summit
01:14:19 - Gratitude and Farewells
The resources mentioned in this episode are:
Get your ticket for the all-access pass to the Wholistic Healing Summit to access exclusive sessions on managing LS symptoms, including pain-free sex, pelvic floor PT, and more. https://lssupportnetwork.org
Join the Wholistic Healing Summit to gain valuable insights on how to navigate relationships and have conversations about LS with partners, family, friends, and employers.
Hey friend! I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Melissa Mauskar, a true rockstar in the world of vulvar health research. She illuminated some fascinating new findings about the hormone and microbiome landscapes in lichen sclerosus.
I walked away feeling so hopeful about how this work might improve patient care down the road! 🙌 Dr. Mauskar broke down the key takeaways in an accessible way – no need for a medical degree to follow along! Whether you have lichen sclerosus yourself or treat patients, I think you'll find this chat insightful.
A few highlights that caught my ear:
- The role of progesterone and other hormones in LS skin
- How treatment impacts microbiome diversity
- Exciting areas for future research.
Dr. Mauskar's passion for patient-centered care and collaboration across specialties to move the needle is inspiring. She helped me understand how this study into hormones and the vulvar microbiome in lichen sclerosus, while small, contributes an important puzzle piece to better understanding and treating this chronic condition.
Let me know what intrigued or surprised you! I always love hearing your experiences and thoughts. And if you appreciate Dr. Mauskar and other clinicians advancing vulvar health, show some love in the comments! ❤️
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Explore the intricate connection between hormonal balance and lichen sclerosus for a holistic understanding.
- Uncover the role of the microbiome in lichen sclerosus and its impact on treatment approaches.
- Create personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs for more effective management of lichen sclerosus.
- Gain insights into providing comprehensive care for vulvar health, enhancing patient outcomes.
- Discover the benefits of collaboration in advancing research and care for vulvar health.
My Special Guest Is Dr. Melissa Mauskar
Dr. Melissa Mauskar, an Associate Professor in the Department of Dermatology and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, is not your typical expert. She's a trailblazer in the field, serving on the board of the newly founded Vulvar Dermatoses Research Consortium and as the secretary general for the North American branch of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease.
With a deep commitment to patient care and a particular focus on lichen sclerosus, Dr. Mauskar's latest research delves into this condition's hormonal and microbiome aspects. Her dedication and expertise in unraveling the complexities of lichen sclerosus make her a true star in the field.
The Key Moments In This Episode Are:00:00:12 – Introduction to Lichen Sclerosis Podcast 00:02:44 – Research Project Background 00:09:36 – Study Methodology and Findings 00:12:42 – Potential Impact and Future Research 00:15:05 – Skin Hormone Levels and Implications 00:17:02 – Significance of Study Results 00:18:01 – Understanding Microbiome 00:20:35 – Treatment Approach and Microbiome 00:24:33 – Role of Yeast in Lichen Sclerosis 00:27:30 – Future Research and Hormonal Influences 00:33:30 – Recognition of Healthcare Providers 00:34:06 – Importance of Care 00:34:52 – Momentum in Menopause Research 00:35:43 – Need for Specialized Healthcare 00:36:31 – Conclusion and Call to Action
The Resources Mentioned In This Episode Are:- Link to the abstract for the study mentioned in the podcast: This will provide detailed information about the study conducted by Dr. Mauskar and her team, “Assessment of the Cutaneous Hormone Landscapes and Microbiomes in Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus,” allowing you to delve deeper into the findings and implications. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38368928/
- Dr. Mauskar's Instagram profile: Follow Dr. Mauskar on Instagram to stay updated on her work, research, and insights in the field of dermatology and women's health. https://www.instagram.com/melissamauskarmd/
- Contact Dr. Mauskar at UT Southwestern Medical Center: If you are in the UT Southwestern area and in need of a dermatologist, reach out to Dr. Mauskar for expert care and consultation. https://utswmed.org/doctors/melissa-mauskar/
Virtual Meetup Information
If you'd like to share your voice in person (virtually), join our next virtual meetup.
We meet every other Saturday from 2–4 PM and 7–9 PM Eastern Standard Time. Take this opportunity to share your diagnosis story, what is and isn’t working for you, and ask a question to the group.
Share your experience and heal. I have met many incredibly strong LS warriors through these meetups, and I would love for you to join our community.
Sign up HERE for notifications and updates. I cannot wait to meet you!
Get ready for a heart-pounding year-end review of the Lichen Sclerosis Support Network's incredible work. From informative videos to virtual meetups, they're empowering LS warriors like me. But just when everything seems perfect, a shocking revelation threatens to unravel all their progress. Will they overcome this unexpected obstacle? Find out on the Lichen Sclerosus Podcast!
In this episode, you will be able to:
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Discover the latest updates and initiatives from the Lichen Sclerosis Support Network (LSSN) in their year-end review.
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Explore diet and lifestyle treatment resources that can help manage Lichen Sclerosis (LS) and improve your overall well-being.
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Dive into the digital pages of LS Zine, a magazine dedicated to providing valuable insights and support for individuals living with LS.
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Learn about the whole-body approach of the Wholistic Healing Summit and what next year's summit will focus on.
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Learn about the other exciting projects and initiatives undertaken by the Lichen Sclerosis Support Network (LSSN) to support individuals dealing with LS.
The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:11 - Introduction 00:01:10 - Mission of LSSN 00:02:40 - Giving Tuesday 00:11:47 - What's New On The Website 00:14:42 Blog Posts 00:18:08 - Video Posts 00:22:00 - LSSN YouTube Channel
00:26:07 Virtual Meetups
00:30:56 LS Brochures
00:33:49 LSSN Shop 00:36:57 Long Form Content 00:41:04 LS Zine/LSSN's Digital Magazine 00:43:09 LSSN Board/Medical Advisory Board 00:46:18 Wholistic Healing Summit 00:47:50 LSSN Mini Summit: Vulvovaginal Conditions 00:50:02 Who have we partnered with? 00:57:40 - Reflecting on Accomplishments and Future Goals
Check out all the ways Lichen Sclerosus Support Network can help you at lssupportnetwork.org.
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Visit our website at Lichen Sclerosus Support Network to access our resources and information. https://lssupportnetwork.org
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Check out our blog for over 42 informative posts on Lichen Sclerosus. https://lssupportnetwork.org/blog
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Check out our 32 video educational posts on everything LS related. https://lssupportnetwork.org/videos
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Attend our virtual Meetups to connect with others and learn more about Lichen Sclerosus. https://lssupportnetwork.org/connect
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Find a healthcare provider in our directory who specializes in Lichen Sclerosus. https://lssupportnetwork.org/providers
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Browse our brochures for helpful information on managing Lichen Sclerosus. https://lssupportnetwork.org/brochure
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Shop at our online store for Lichen Sclerosus-related products and merchandise. https://lssupportnetwork.org/shop
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Support our education fund by making a donation on Giving Tuesday or becoming a monthly donor. https://lssupportnetwork.org/givingtuesday
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Stay updated on news and events at LSSN by subscribing to our newsletters. https://lssupportnetwork.org/subscribe
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Contact with Functional Nutrition Therapist Heather Cooan on her website at https://heathercooan.com
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Check out our boards at https://lssupportnetwork.org/lssn-board
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Get a copy of our digital magazine at https://lszine.lssupportnetwork.org
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https://lssupportnetwork.org/
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https://www.youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQXU-nhfnn-nScR_5VyUdCQ
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/lssn
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https://www.facebook.com/lichensclerosussupportnetwork