Does radiotherapy treat vulvar cancer?

Radiotherapy may be given before surgery to shrink a tumour, after surgery when the team needs to treat the vulva or groin nodes, or as a primary treatment when an operation is not suitable. It may be combined with medicine for selected cases. Decisions depend on the tumour’s location and extent, lymph-node findings, previous treatment, and how to protect nearby skin and pelvic organs.

The treated skin can become red, sore, moist, itchy, or sensitive, and tiredness may build during the course. Passing urine or sitting may become uncomfortable. Your team can recommend gentle cleansing, suitable clothing, pain relief, and ways to protect nutrition and hydration.

Ask whether radiotherapy is intended to shrink the tumour, prevent local return, or control symptoms. Tell the team about skin conditions, wounds, urinary symptoms, and any concerns about intimacy or body image. Follow the prescribed skin-care plan and avoid applying unapproved products to the treatment area. Report soreness early so dressings or medicines can be adjusted.

Contact the care team promptly if skin breaks down, pain becomes difficult to control, you develop fever, bleeding increases, or passing urine becomes difficult. Seek urgent help for severe bleeding, collapse, or severe pain with inability to pass urine. Prompt review can help prevent worsening irritation and treat infection or other complications.

Will treatment include the groin lymph nodes? Is radiotherapy before or after surgery in my plan? Which skin products and pain medicines are safe? How can I manage sitting, urination, intimacy, and everyday movement during treatment?