Women's Health
Discover how Main Line Health provides comprehensive and compassionate care for women in all stages of life.
Vulvar Cancer
What is vulvar cancer?
Vulvar cancer is a rare type of cancer that starts in the cells of the vulva, which is the outer skin that surrounds the female genitalia, including the vaginal lips, clitoris and urethral opening. The main types of vulvar cancer are squamous cell carcinoma, which develops in the thin, flat cells found on the vaginal lips, and adenocarcinomas, which begin in the cells that make mucus and other vaginal fluids.
Symptoms of vulvar cancer
Vulvar cancer develops slowly over time and signs of it may sometimes be detected during a routine gynecologic exam. You may notice signs and symptoms in the vulvar area, such as:
- Itching
- Bleeding when not menstruating
- A lump or tenderness
- Rashes, ulcers, sores
- Redness or a change in skin color or thickness
If you have symptoms like these or have concerns about your risk of vulvar cancer, be sure to talk to your doctor. Your gynecologist will perform a physical exam and review of your medical history, and may recommend further testing such as a biopsy to test for the presence of abnormal cells.
Who is at risk for vulvar cancer?
Like many forms of cancer, it is not clear what causes vulvar cancer though certain women may be more at risk. The average age of diagnosis is 65 years old, an indication that the risk increases with age.
You may also be more at risk if you:
Treatments
If you are diagnosed with vulvar cancer, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. Your treatment will depend on your age and health condition as well as how far the cancer has progressed. Treatment often includes a combination of surgery to remove the cancerous cells and surrounding tissue as well as radiation and chemotherapy.
Gynecologic Oncology
The gynecologic oncology specialists at Main Line Health offer comprehensive and compassionate care for women suffering from cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is used to fight almost every type of cancer and is part of the comprehensive treatment plan created by our oncologists.
Hematology and Blood Disorders
Whether you are fighting cancer or managing a blood disorder, the hematologists and oncologists at Main Line Health offer the comprehensive care you need.
Cancer Care
From diagnosis and throughout treatment, Main Line Health cancer specialists (oncologists) provide compassionate care for you and your loved ones through all stages of cancer treatment.