Vaginal & Vulvar Cancer
What Is Vaginal & Vulvar Cancer?
Vaginal and vulvar cancers are rare gynecologic cancers that develop in the lower part of the female reproductive system. Vaginal cancer begins in the vagina, the canal leading from the cervix to the outside of the body. Vulvar cancer begins in the outer genital area, including the labia and clitoris. While uncommon, both cancers can be treated most successfully when found early.
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase the risk of vaginal or vulvar cancer include:
- Persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Age (most cases occur in women over 60)
- Smoking
- Weakened immune system
- Precancerous conditions such as vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN) or vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)
- History of cervical precancer or cervical cancer
- Lichen sclerosus (a skin condition affecting the vulva)
Symptoms
Signs of vaginal or vulvar cancer may include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Pain or bleeding after intercourse
- A lump, sore or thickened area in the vulva or vagina that does not heal
- Itching, burning or tenderness in the vulvar area
- Pelvic pain or difficulty urinating in advanced cases
Treatment
At AtlantiCare, vaginal and vulvar cancer care is provided by a team of gynecologic oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurse navigators and supportive care specialists.
Treatment options may include:
- Surgery – removal of cancerous tissue, which may range from local excision to more extensive surgery depending on tumor size and location
- Radiation therapy – external beam radiation or brachytherapy to target tumors or prevent recurrence
- Medical oncology – chemotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced disease or when surgery and radiation are not sufficient
- Clinical trials – access to innovative treatment options through AtlantiCare’s affiliation with the Cleveland Clinic Cancer Institute
Prevention
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent vaginal or vulvar cancer, steps that may lower risk include:
- HPV vaccination – reduces risk of HPV-related cancers
- Routine gynecologic exams – can help detect precancerous changes early
- Safe practices – practicing safe sex and limiting number of sexual partners reduces HPV exposure
- Quitting smoking – lowers risk of developing both vaginal and vulvar cancers
- Managing skin conditions – such as lichen sclerosus with guidance from a healthcare provider