Frequently Asked Questions about Vulvar Cancer

Vulvar cancer can form on the inner and outer labia, clitoris, vaginal opening and glands, the mons pubis (skin covering the pubic bones), and the perineum. 

Vulvar cancer often begins as a precancerous lesion. This lesion may not always be seen or felt, but the area may itch, hurt or bleed. It is important to call a gynecologist if you experience these symptoms. 

Vulvar cancer most often occurs after menopause, and the average age at diagnosis is 65.

Some strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) known as “high-risk” can cause vulvar and other cancers, including cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, anal cancer and throat cancer. People who are treated at Penn Medicine for one of these cancers will continue to be monitored for other HPV-related cancers. If you have high-risk HPV, smoking increases your risk of developing an HPV-related cancer. 

The HPV vaccine protects against the high-risk strains of the virus that can cause cancer. The HPV vaccine is currently available for certain adults. Ask your doctor if it is right for you.

If you are diagnosed with vulvar cancer, our fertility preservation program will evaluate your options for having a family in the future.

The average five-year relative survival rate for vulvar cancer is 71 percent.

All cancers are divided into stages. The characteristics of each stage depend on the cancer. For vulvar cancer:

• Stage 0. Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (precancer)
• Stage I. Cancer is limited to the vulva and perineum and is smaller than 2 centimeters
• Stage II. Cancer is limited to the vulva and perineum, but tumor is larger than 2 centimeters
• Stage III. Cancer has spread to vagina, urethra, anus and/or the lymph nodes in the groin
• Stage IV. Cancer has spread to bladder, bowel, pelvic bone, pelvic lymph nodes and/or other parts of the body