Recently diagnosed with LS

I'm 48 years old and have always been healthy. The itching and tenderness began a few months ago. I chalked it up to a minor infection and irritation from lots of sex with my boyfriend. I noticed a slight discoloration first and thought it may be the beginning of menopause, although I still have very regular periods. Within a week, the itch became unbearable and the color was almost completely gone in my labia. I searched online and discovered the disease, LS for the first time. It was confirmed with a biopsy 2 weeks ago. I am trying to get all the info I can. I am very grateful to find this support forum; lots of great information and I don't feel quite so alone. I feel very embarrassed (although I know I shouldn't...) and have not told my boyfriend yet. Our sex life has always been wonderful and I'm terrified at the possibilities. Still, I realize the best thing for me is to arm myself with information. I've already improved significantly within the past two weeks. Here is what I've been doing: My doctor prescribed a very strong cortisone cream. I seem to be tolerating this well. Once a day, I soak in a warm tub with Epsom Salt and baking soda. This feels great. I switched to Castile soap (all natural)and have started taking a probiotic. In addition I clean the area twice a day with witch hazel. After reading this forum, I may try the emu oil or aloe vera instead of the witch hazel. I've also changed my diet to all organic, low carbs. I have no idea how this will all play out, but (I'm sure like everyone else) I want to do everything possible to keep this under control. I hate the way I look down there. The whitish color is horrible and I hope to find something to get the coloring to return to normal. That may sound petty given the agony of the itch and pain... but has anyone out there ever returned to "normal"? Tweet