When all you need is someone who understands

Understanding Lichen Sclerosis: What You Need to Know Lichen Sclerosis (LS) is a condition we see more often than people realise — yet many individuals go years without the right diagnosis. At Pelvic Health Melbourne, our goal is to make conversations about vulval, penile and anal health easy, accessible and stigma-free. Here’s a clear guide to what LS is, how it’s treated, and how pelvic health physiotherapy can support you. What Is Lichen Sclerosis (LS)? Lichen Sclerosis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that typically affects the vulva, penis, or the skin around the anus. A few key facts: It’s not contagious. You can’t pass LS on to a partner. It may have a genetic or autoimmune link. People with other autoimmune conditions can be more prone to developing it. It’s more commonly diagnosed in people in their 40s and 50s, though it can occur at any age. Common Signs and Symptoms LS can look and feel different for everyone, but some of the most common symptoms include: Itching, burning or general soreness around the vulva, penis, or anus Skin changes, such as pale or white patches, areas that appear thickened or “crinkled,” or skin that becomes thin and fragile over time Dryness and loss of natural skin oils, leading to cracks, fissures, bruising or even blisters Possible scarring or narrowing of the vaginal or anal openings in long-standing vulval or anal LS In penile LS, symptoms often affect the foreskin and glans (head of penis) If any of these symptoms sound familiar — especially if they’ve been going on for a while — it’s worth discussing LS with your GP or pelvic health clinician. Typical Management & Treatment in Australia The good news: with early diagnosis and treatment, LS can be well managed and long-term complications can be reduced. Common treatments include: Topical steroid ointments or creams to reduce inflammation Topical oestrogen if thinning or hormone-related changes are present (for vulval LS) Gentle skin care routines to restore moisture and protect fragile skin Silicone-based lubricants for comfortable intimacy Vaginal dilators or vibrators to help maintain stretch and comfort if the vaginal entrance has narrowed Your GP or dermatologist will oversee the medical management — but pelvic health physio plays a big role too. How Pelvic Health Physio Can Help Our clinicians at Pelvic Health Melbourne are experienced in recognising LS and supporting you through the often-overlooked side effects of the condition. We can help with: Identifying symptoms early and guiding you to your GP for diagnosis and treatment Addressing secondary pain, such as burning or discomfort caused by pelvic floor overactivity Managing scarring or narrowing at the vaginal entrance using dilators, moisturises and tailored lubrication advice Supporting intimacy goals, helping reduce muscle tightness and improve comfort during sexual activity Easing nerve-related pelvic pain, which can develop from chronic irritation or inflammation Managing LS isn’t just about treating the skin — it’s about restoring comfort, confidence and quality of life. Why Awareness Matters LS is not extremely common, and some practitioners may only encounter it rarely. This means it can sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for recurrent thrush, eczema or dermatitis. Knowing the signs — and knowing to ask the question — can make a big difference. Early treatment helps: Control inflammation Prevent or reduce scarring Maintain skin health Improve long-term comfort and function If you suspect LS, trust your instincts and seek support. You're not alone — and there are effective treatments available. If you’d like guidance, reassurance, or help managing symptoms, our pelvic health physiotherapy team is here to support you every step of the way.

Understanding Premature Ejaculation: Causes, Treatment, and Support Premature ejaculation (PE) is one of the most common sexual concerns in males, yet it is rarely talked about openly. Many males experience it at some point in their lives, but when it happens regularly, it can cause frustration, affect confidence, and even put strain on intimate relationships. The good news? Premature ejaculation is very common and treatable. Let’s break down what it is, why it happens, and how it can be managed. What is premature ejaculation? Premature ejaculation is when ejaculation occurs sooner than you or your partner would like, often within a minute of penetration or even before penetration begins. For some males, it happens occasionally; for others, it’s a consistent pattern that impacts sexual satisfaction. It’s important to know that there is no “perfect time” that sex should last. PE is usually defined not just by timing, but by whether it causes distress or difficulty in sexual relationships. Why does premature ejaculation happen? There isn’t just one cause — PE can result from a combination of physical, psychological, and behavioural factors. Pelvic floor muscle involvement: Overactive or tense pelvic floor muscles can lead to reduced control and quicker ejaculation. Psychological factors: Anxiety, stress, performance pressure, or even relationship concerns can all play a role. Learned patterns: Rushing during sex or masturbation (for example, due to fear of being caught in adolescence) can become a habit that carries into adulthood. Medical factors: Hormonal changes, nerve sensitivity, or underlying health conditions may contribute. How can premature ejaculation be treated? Treatment usually combines physical and psychological strategies. Here are some of the most effective approaches: Pelvic floor physiotherapy Learning to identify, relax, and retrain pelvic floor muscles can improve control. Many males with PE actually have an overactive pelvic floor rather than a weak one. Breathing and body awareness Deep breathing and mindfulness techniques can reduce muscle tension and help manage arousal levels. Behavioural techniques Methods such as the “stop-start” technique or “squeeze” technique, when practiced with guidance, can gradually improve control. Psychological support Addressing anxiety, stress, or negative thought patterns around sex can make a big difference. Sometimes, working with a psychologist or sex therapist alongside physiotherapy provides the best outcomes. Medical options In some cases, doctors may suggest medication (such as topical numbing creams or certain oral medications) if conservative strategies aren’t enough on their own. Why seeing a professional helps Many males try to manage PE on their own but don’t see lasting improvement. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can assess muscle activity, teach you how to use (and relax) your pelvic floor effectively, and guide you through strategies tailored to your body and situation. If anxiety or relationship strain is part of the picture, working alongside a sexual health psychologist or counsellor can be very effective. Conclusion Premature ejaculation is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of. If it’s causing frustration or stress in your life, know that help is available — and you don’t have to put up with it alone. Taking the first step to speak with a professional can make all the difference in regaining control, confidence, and satisfaction in your sexual health.