How effective is radiotherapy for vulvar cancer?

Radiotherapy may shrink a vulvar tumour before surgery, treat the vulva or groin lymph-node areas after surgery, or manage cancer that cannot be removed safely. The recommendation considers the tumour's position and depth, surgical margins, lymph-node findings and whether disease has reached nearby structures. External-beam treatment is commonly planned with scans so the target receives radiation while nearby skin, bowel, bladder and other tissues are considered. Treatment can cause soreness, skin irritation, fatigue and changes in sexual comfort.

Ask the gynaecological cancer team to describe the aim of treatment and how response will be checked. Before starting, discuss skin care, washing, clothing, pain relief, bowel and bladder symptoms, sexual wellbeing and any wound or surgery issues. Tell the team about previous pelvic treatment, medicines and allergies. Practical support with nutrition, mobility and emotional wellbeing can make treatment easier to manage.

Call the treatment team for increasing vulvar pain, open or infected-looking skin, fever, heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or difficulty passing urine. New leg swelling or worsening pelvic pain should also be assessed. Severe bleeding, fainting, or trouble breathing requires emergency care.

Is radiotherapy planned before surgery, after surgery, or instead of surgery? Are the groin lymph nodes included? How will the treatment affect skin, urination, bowel function and sexual comfort? What wound-care and pain support will I have?