Vittrup G, Mørup L, Heilesen T, et al. - As Lichen sclerosus (LS) affects the female anogenital area and causes symptoms like itching, soreness and dyspareunia, researchers aimed to report on the quality of life and sexual functioning in affected women.

• A total of 158 women aged over 18 years, diagnosed with LS, completed three questionnaires, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and the World Health Organization Five-Item Well-Being Index (WHO-5).

• Researchers recorded a low score on all FSFI scales for the women; their mean score was 13.83 (95% CI 12.46–15.20), indicating lowered sexual functioning.

• Score for desire was 2.32, arousal was 2.23, lubrication was 2.39, orgasm was 2.28, satisfaction was 3.02 and pain was 1.59 in subgroup evaluation.

• A mean score of 7.88 was recorded for the DLQI, indicating that the women's everyday life is moderately affected.

• The mean subscores were treatment 0.32, sexual difficulties 1.56, relations 1.02, work/study 0.34, sport 0.45, social activities 0.54, clothing 0.89, shopping 0.22, embarrassment 0.99 and itching, soreness and pain 1.55.

• The mean score for the WHO-5 was 56.66 indicating the presence of signs of depression in 40% of the women.

• Overall findings suggest a considerable influence of LS on the sexual functioning and quality of life of women.

• Researchers recommend healthcare professionals to consider the psychological and social aspects in these cases along with their biological aspects.