The skin area between female’s legs is known as the vulvar, this is made up of the female sex organs. There are two outer lips known as the labia majora and two inner lips known as the labia minora (this area is delicate/thin). There are various different types of vulval cancer known as:

• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Vulval melanoma
• Adenocarcinoma
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Verrucous carcinoma
• Sarcomas

Following diagnosis your doctor/consultant can discuss treatment options with you (dependent on the form of cancer you have) and answer any of your questions.

Things to look out for

Symptoms include but are not limited to:

• Changes in the skin of the vulva: darkened/red/whitened patches, these may be raised or thickened.
• A burning sensation when urinating.
• A growth on the vulva comparable to a wart or a simple lump.
• Changes in colour or shape of a mole on the vulva.
• Pain and or discomfort in the vulva area, including itching or burning sensation.
• Discharge from the vulva which is bloodstained and or abnormal bleeding.
• An ulcerated area which can be sore on the vulva.

These symptoms may not be caused by cancer but due to the nature of cancer it is important you speak to your doctor/consultant if you experience some or any of these symptoms.