Vulvar Cancer
A type of cancer that occurs on the outer surface area of female genitals.
Vulvar cancer is most commonly diagnosed in older women. Risks include exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV) and smoking. An early diagnosis reduces the likelihood that extensive treatment will be required.
Vulvar cancer commonly forms as a lump or sore on the vulva that often causes itching. Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the cancer and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue.
- Avoid HPV infection. Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) is a risk factor for vulvar cancer.
- Get vaccinated. Vaccines that protect against certain HPV infections are available.
- Don't smoke. Not smoking is another way to lower the risk for vulvar cancer.
- Get regular pelvic checkups.
Vulvar Cancer FQAS
Vulvar cancer can form on the inner and outer labia, clitoris, vaginal opening and glands, the mons pubis (skin covering the pubic bones), and the perineum.
Vulvar cancer most often occurs after menopause, and the average age at diagnosis is 65.
The average five-year relative survival rate for vulvar cancer is 71 percent.
All cancers are divided into stages. The characteristics of each stage depend on the cancer. For vulvar cancer:
- Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (precancer)
- Cancer is limited to the vulva and perineum and is smaller than 2 centimeters
- Cancer is limited to the vulva and perineum, but tumor is larger than 2 centimeters
- Cancer has spread to vagina, urethra, anus and/or the lymph nodes in the groin
- Cancer has spread to bladder, bowel, pelvic bone, pelvic lymph nodes and/or other parts of the body
Quick Connect For Vulvar Cancer