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Vulvar cancer begins with the development of cells on the vulva. The vulva is the skin around the urethra and vagina. It contains the clitoris and the labia.

Vulvar cancer usually shows up as a bump or sore on the vulva, which frequently causes itching. Although vulvar cancer can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in older adults.

The goal of treating vulvar cancer is to eliminate or manage malignant growths in the vulva, which is the exterior portion of the female genital organs. Preventing the spread of cancer, reducing pain and bleeding, and enhancing the patient's quality of life are the objectives. To target the cancer and lower the chance of recurrence, treatment options may involve radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery.

See a physician if you have unexplained vulva itching, soreness, or discomfort; if you have abnormal bleeding; or if you notice changes in the vulva's appearance, such as lumps, sores, or color changes. These can be symptoms of vulvar cancer or other illnesses that need to be evaluated by a physician.

Your doctor will perform a comprehensive evaluation to prepare for vulvar cancer therapy, which will include imaging tests (such as CT or MRI scans), physical examinations, and biopsies to determine the cancer's extent. You may need to stop certain medications, and fasting before surgery or radiation might be required.

Surgery to remove tumors, possibly involving a partial or total vulvectomy, is part of the treatment for vulvar cancer. Chemotherapy is an option for advanced stages or dissemination, while radiation therapy can be utilized to target any cancer cells that remain. Treatment is tailored to the type and stage of the cancer.

The duration of vulvar cancer treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer. Depending on the extent of the surgery, it could take one to four hours.

Infection
Scarring after surgery
Lymphedema (swelling)
Urinary or sexual dysfunction due to surgery or radiation
Fatigue, nausea, or hair loss from chemotherapy

Treatment for vulvar cancer improves quality of life, reduces symptoms, and eradicates or inhibits the growth of the tumors. It improves survival rates, particularly when detected early and treated appropriately.

Following vulvar cancer treatment, wound care, pain management, and vigilance for complications such as infection or swelling are all part of the post-operative recovery. Patients may require physical therapy for mobility or pelvic floor exercises, particularly following surgery. A complete recovery may take weeks to months, with follow-up appointments to gauge healing and avoid recurrence.

The stage of diagnosis determines how well vulvar cancer is treated. Up to 80–90% of people who have vulvar cancer in its early stages will survive for five years.