Vulval cancer

Vulval cancer is a rare cancer. It is sometimes called vulvar cancer. Vulval cancer can start in any part of the vulva. The vulva is the area between a woman’s legs that includes the external sex organs.

The treatment you need depends on how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. The most common treatment is surgery.

What is vulval cancer?

Vulval cancer is when abnormal cells in the vulva start to divide and grow in an uncontrolled way.

Vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)

Vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) is a skin condition of the vulva. Find out about symptoms and treatment options.

Symptoms of vulval cancer

Not everyone diagnosed with vulval cancer will have symptoms. Things to look out for include an open sore or lesion in the vulva.

Getting diagnosed with vulval cancer

You usually start by seeing your GP. They ask about your symptoms and examine you. Your GP then decides whether to refer you to a specialist.

Survival of vulval cancer

Survival for vulval cancer depends on several factors including the age at the time of diagnosis and the type of vulval cancer.

Treatment for vulval cancer

Your treatment depends on a number of factors. Surgery is the most common treatment for vulval cancer.

Stages, types and grades of vulval cancer

Get information about how doctors stage and grade vulval cancer. In the UK, doctors stage vulval cancer according to the FIGO system.

Research into vulval cancer

Find out about the latest UK research, clinical trials and how you can take part.

Living with vulval cancer

Advice and support are available to help you cope with vulval cancer and its treatment.

Risks and causes of vulval cancer

We don’t know what causes all vulval cancers. But there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing it.