What is Vulvar Cancer?

Vulvar cancer is a rare type of cancer that develops in the tissues of the vulva, which is the outer part of the female genital area.

The vulva includes:

• Labia majora (outer lips)
• Labia minora (inner lips)
• Clitoris
• Vaginal opening
• Urethral opening (where urine comes out)
• Mons pubis
• Perineum (area between the vagina and anus)

Vulvar cancer usually grows slowly over many years. Often, unusual skin changes show up first. These early changes are called vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN). Treating VIN early can help prevent cancer.

What are the types of vulvar cancer?

Vulvar cancer is grouped by the kind of cell where the cancer starts.

Common types:

• Squamous cell carcinoma
  Accounts for about 90% of vulvar cancers. It starts in the outer skin cells.
• Vulvar melanoma
  Makes up about 5% of cases. It grows fast and can spread early.

Rare types include:

• Basal cell carcinoma
• Bartholin gland adenocarcinoma
• Paget’s disease of the vulva
• Sarcoma
• Verrucous carcinoma

What are the symptoms of vulvar cancer?

Early symptoms often involve skin changes on the vulva. These symptoms can appear anywhere on the vulva.

Common signs include:

• Changes in skin color (lighter, darker, or white patches)
• Thickened or rough skin
• Lumps, wart-like growths, or sores that don’t heal
• Persistent itching or burning
• Pain or tenderness
• Bleeding or discharge not related to periods
• Pain during sex or while urinating

Many of these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions. Only a doctor can determine the cause.

What causes vulvar cancer?

Vulvar cancer happens when cells in the vulva grow abnormally and uncontrollably.

The two most common associated conditions are:

1. Human papillomavirus (HPV): Certain high-risk HPV types can increase the risk of vulvar cancer. HPV spreads through skin-to-skin sexual contact.
2. Lichen sclerosus: A long-lasting skin problem that causes thinning, itching, and swelling of vulvar skin, raising cancer risk over time.

How is vulvar cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves several steps:

Pelvic examination

• Visual inspection of the vulva
• Internal examination of the vagina and sometimes rectum
• Use of a speculum to see internal areas

Pap smear

• Checks for abnormal cells and HPV infection

Colposcopy

• A magnifying device helps closely examine abnormal areas

Biopsy

• A small tissue sample is taken for testing
• Biopsy is the only definite way to confirm vulvar cancer

How do doctors check if vulvar cancer has spread?

Additional tests may include:

• Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI, PET scan, X-ray)
• Scope tests (cystoscopy or proctoscopy)
• Sentinel lymph node biopsy to check nearby lymph nodes in the groin

What are the stages of vulvar cancer?

Staging shows how far cancer has spread.

• Stage I: Cancer limited to the vulva or perineum
• Stage II: Cancer has spread to nearby areas like the lower vagina, urethra, or anus
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to upper genital organs or distant parts of the body

Your doctor will explain what your stage means for treatment and recovery.

How is vulvar cancer treated?

Treatment depends on how far the cancer has spread, the type of cancer, and your overall health.

Surgery (main treatment)

• Local excision: Removes cancer with some surrounding tissue
• Vulvectomy: Removes part or all of the vulva
• Laser surgery: Removes superficial lesions
• Pelvic exenteration: Rare, major surgery for advanced cancer

Radiation therapy

• Uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells
• Often combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiation)

Chemotherapy

• Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells.
• These medicines can be given by injection, as pills, or as topical creams.
• Common drugs include cisplatin and fluorouracil

Immunotherapy

• Immunotherapy helps the immune system fight cancer.
• Doctors may use imiquimod cream in certain cases.

What follow-up care is needed after treatment?

Regular follow-up visits are important to:

• Check for cancer recurrence
• Manage side effects
• Support physical and emotional recovery

Follow-up care usually includes exams and imaging tests at set times.

Can vulvar cancer be prevented?

Risk can be reduced by:

• HPV vaccination
• Treating vulvar skin conditions early
• Regular gynecological checkups
• Early evaluation of vulvar skin changes

Is vulvar cancer serious?

Yes. If not treated, vulvar cancer can spread and become life-threatening. However, early-stage vulvar cancer is highly treatable, and many patients remain cancer-free after treatment.

Living with vulvar cancer

How can I care for myself?

It’s normal to feel anxious or self-conscious. Vulvar cancer does not mean intimacy must stop. Talk openly with your doctor about:

• Sexual health concerns
• Emotional support
• Physical recovery

Support services and counseling can help you adjust and heal.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Vulvar Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Vulvar Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced gynecologic oncologists and cancer specialists, known as some of the best doctors for women’s cancer care. We provide accurate diagnosis with advanced imaging and biopsy tests, personalized treatment including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy when required, and comprehensive supportive care. Our team has decades of experience in successfully treating Vulvar Cancer in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Vulvar Cancer treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

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