Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer is a rare cancer affecting the external genitalia. Learn about its symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and how early detection can help prevent it.
Written by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam
Reviewed by Dr. J T Hema Pratima MBBS, Fellowship in Diabetes Mellitus
Last updated on 2nd Mar, 2026
Vulvar cancer is a rare malignancy that affects the external genitalia of women. It accounts for around 1-2% of all gynaecological cancers in India, with the Indian Journal of Cancer reporting an age-standardized incidence rate of 0.3 per 100,000 women.
The vulva comprises the labia majora (outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), clitoris, vaginal opening (vestibule), and the urethral opening. Early detection, through symptom recognition and regular gynaecological examinations, is crucial for better treatment outcomes. This blog discusses the causes, diagnosis, and treatment approaches for vulvar cancer.
Common Symptoms of Vulvar Cancer
Noticing symptoms early is crucial for better outcomes. Common signs include:
Persistent itching, pain, or discomfort in the vulva area
Visible changes in the vulva’s appearance, such as colour changes or thickening
Lumps, masses, or sores
Unusual bleeding or discharge
Scheduled visits to the doctor can help detect problems early. Doctors should exercise caution, particularly with patients who experience persistent symptoms.
Risk Factors of Vulvar Cancer
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing vulvar cancer, including:
Age under 65 years
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly strains 16 and 18
Smoking
Chronic vulvar conditions, such as lichen sclerosis
Weakened immune system
Family history of vulvar or other genital cancers
History of cervical or vaginal cancers
Multiple sexual partners
Abnormal Pap smear history
Understanding these risk factors is essential for prevention and early detection.
Diagnosis of Vulvar Cancer
The diagnosis of vulvar cancer involves a comprehensive approach, including clinical evaluation, histological sampling, and imaging techniques. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving treatment effectiveness and prognosis.
Medical specialists begin with a detailed visual and physical examination of the vulvar area, looking for changes in texture or the appearance of masses.
Colposcopy and biopsy allow for a more precise diagnosis through microscopic examination of the tissue.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides high-quality imaging of soft tissues for accurate disease staging.
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is used to detect lymph node involvement and the spread of metastatic disease.
Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT) identifies metabolically active areas, including recurrences.
Consult Top Doctors for Your Symptoms
Stages of Vulvar Cancer
The staging of vulvar cancer follows the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) classification system, which takes into account tumour size, tissue invasion, lymph node
involvement, and distant metastases.
The stage-specific classifications are:
Stage I: Confined to the vulva or perineum
Stage II: Spread to adjacent structures, such as the lower urethra, vagina, or anus
Stage III: Involvement of local lymph nodes
Stage IV: Distant spread or involvement of other pelvic structures
Treatment Options for Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer treatment strategies should be customised based on the stage of the disease and the individual patient's needs. Surgery is the cornerstone of treatment, which includes:
Wide local excision for early-stage disease
Radical vulvectomy for more advanced stages
Lymph node dissection, if necessary
Radiation therapy is also used in various contexts:
As the primary treatment for some patients
As adjuvant therapy following surgery
Palliative care for advanced disease
Chemotherapy is employed in the following ways:
Concurrent with radiation for locally advanced disease
Systemic therapy for metastatic disease
Novel targeted therapies being explored through clinical trials
Living with Vulvar Cancer
Vulvar cancer treatment extends beyond medical intervention, requiring comprehensive support for patients in various areas:
Rehabilitation: Post-surgery physical rehabilitation to aid recovery
Psychological and Counselling Services: Addressing emotional and mental well-being
Sexual Health Counselling: Assisting with changes in sexual health and intimacy
Pain Management: Alleviating discomfort and managing symptoms
Support systems are vital in the patient's journey, including:
Healthcare Team Coordination: Ensuring integrated care from specialists
Family and Social Support Networks: Providing emotional and practical assistance
Patient Support Groups and Advocacy Organisations: Offering peer support and advocacy for ongoing care
Prevention and Awareness
Efforts to prevent vulvar cancer are crucial and involve a combination of medical and public health strategies. These include:
HPV Vaccination Programs: Targeting the appropriate age groups to reduce the risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
Regular Gynecological Check-ups: Encouraging routine exams for early detection and monitoring
Patient Education: Informing women about risk factors and symptoms for timely intervention
Smoking Cessation Programs: Helping individuals quit smoking to reduce cancer risk
Public health initiatives also focus on:
Raising Awareness: Increasing knowledge about vulvar cancer and its risks
Promoting Early Diagnosis: Educating women on the importance of early detection
Reducing Stigma: Challenging the stigma surrounding gynaecological cancers to encourage open discussion and support
Vulvar Cancer Prognosis and Complications
The prognosis of vulvar cancer varies significantly based on several factors, including:
Stage at Diagnosis: The extent of the cancer's spread
Tumour Type: Histological classification and aggressiveness
Age and General Health: The patient's overall well-being and fitness
Response to Treatment: How well the cancer responds to the chosen therapies
Complications arising during treatment require continuous monitoring, such as:
Surgical Site Complications: Infection or delayed healing
Lymphedema: Swelling following lymph node dissection
Treatment Side Effects: Potential long-term effects from radiation or chemotherapy
Quality of Life: Ensuring the patient’s well-being post-treatment
The overall prognosis is influenced by disease stage, lymph node involvement, tumour characteristics, and patient-specific factors such as age, health, treatment response, and molecular markers. Ongoing follow-up care allows healthcare providers to adjust treatment strategies and deliver an accurate prognosis.
Conclusion
Early detection and awareness of vulvar cancer symptoms significantly enhance treatment outcomes, which are largely influenced by the information shared with patients by healthcare providers.
Recent advancements in the treatment and care of vulvar cancer have led to substantial improvements in management, offering new hope for better outcomes. Progress in surgery, targeted therapies, and supportive care strategies have all contributed to better patient results.
Consult Top Gynaecological Oncologists
Consult Top Doctors for Your Symptoms
Dr. B Shravanthi Reddy
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB(Radiation Oncology)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
Dr. Sai Lakshmi Daayana
Gynaecological Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MRCOG
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Revathi S Rajan
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB.FFMM
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Swati Shah
Surgical Oncologist
15 Years • DNB Surgical Oncology, certified Robotic Cancer Surgeon
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Prashant Chandra Das
Surgical Oncologist
15 Years • MBBS (MKCG Medical college) MCh (Surgical Oncology, Kidwai memorial institute of Oncology, Bangalore) MS (General Surgery, BHU Varanasi) Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery ( FMAS). ESSO Course On Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy & Gastrectomy (UMC, Utrecht, Netherlands). Trained in Robotic and Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
(25+ Patients)
Consult Top Gynaecological Oncologists
Dr. B Shravanthi Reddy
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
8 Years • MBBS, DNB(Radiation Oncology)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
Dr. Sai Lakshmi Daayana
Gynaecological Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MRCOG
Hyderabad
Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
(225+ Patients)
Dr. Revathi S Rajan
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB.FFMM
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Swati Shah
Surgical Oncologist
15 Years • DNB Surgical Oncology, certified Robotic Cancer Surgeon
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Prashant Chandra Das
Surgical Oncologist
15 Years • MBBS (MKCG Medical college) MCh (Surgical Oncology, Kidwai memorial institute of Oncology, Bangalore) MS (General Surgery, BHU Varanasi) Fellowship in Minimal Access Surgery ( FMAS). ESSO Course On Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy & Gastrectomy (UMC, Utrecht, Netherlands). Trained in Robotic and Laparoscopic Cancer Surgery.
Bhubaneswar
Apollo Hospitals Old Sainik School Road, Bhubaneswar
(25+ Patients)