Cancer of the vulva is a rare type of cancer and occurs on the vulva, not the vagina with just over 1,300 cases diagnosed in the UK each year.
Cancer of the vulva most often affects the inner edges of the labia majora or the labia minora, but it can start in the clitoris or the Bartholin gland. It usually presents itself as a lump or sore on the vulva that often causes itching.
On average 80% of vulval cancers are diagnosed in people over the age of 60; however, anyone with a vulva can be diagnosed.
Symptoms of Vulval Cancer
- Persistent Itch of the vulva
- pain of the vulva
- Thickened raised red, lighter or darker patches on the vulval skin.
- A lump or wart-like growth on the vulva
- Bleeding from the vulva between periods
- An open sore on the vulva
- Burning pain when peeing
- A mole that changes shape or colour
Never feel silly for going to the doctor, no matter how small it seems, it's YOUR body and you know it better than them!
Check out my commission for The Eve Appeal on the symptoms of Vulval Cancer.
Treatments for Vulval Cancer
Treatment to remove the cancer is often surgery, but if the cancer is in its advanced stages, they may have to remove the entire vulva.
The earlier it is caught the better which is why it’s so important to get checked out and keep an eye on your vulva!
Check out this post with Talk Peach on how to check your vulva for all cancers!
