hi, just read your post and thought i might try answer some of your questions for you. i have had LS ever since i was little. my mother and i both have this condition, and to my understanding, the cause of LS is not known yet but what happens is that it is found in people who have poor auto immune systems, due to this the body attacks its own mucous membrains( on the vulva and inside the mouth). the best natural way to help this is by taking a supplement to help immune, by drinking friut and vege drinks, and NOT using soap. try an alternative. i was also given a steriod cream to use as directed which has helped imensly. any other questons i can help with i would be happy to answer. im trying to help others with the same questions i was asking. good luck