A somewhat rare chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin that affects women far more often than men. It usually impacts the skin on the vulva or penis, anus, and perineum, but occassionally the breasts and upper arms. (In men, it is called balanitis xerotica obliterans.) It is also called white spot disease. It causes the skin to become discolored, irritated and itchy. Symptoms can be mild or severe. When it is severe, it can cause a burning sensation in the vagina. Blisters and sores can form on the genitals, often from constant itching. Lichen Sclerosus can make sex painful, and can also make it difficult to urinate or defecate. It is more likely to affect girls before puberty or women after menopause. The exact cause is unknown, although it behaves like an autoimmune disease and it may also have a genetic component. It is not a sexually transmitted disease and is not contagious. While it cannot be cured, potent corticosteroid ointments can help with the itching. Phototherapy can help relieve some of the symptoms, as can immunosuppressive medications.