What are the symptoms of vulvar cancer?

The vulva may develop a patch that looks lighter, darker, thicker or redder than surrounding skin. A sore that does not heal, a wart-like growth, bleeding, burning, tenderness or persistent itching can also occur. Irritation, eczema, dermatitis, infections and other non-cancerous conditions can cause similar symptoms, so appearance alone cannot identify the cause. HPV infection is one factor that may be considered during assessment.

Arrange a medical review for a new vulvar lump, a sore that persists, bleeding without a clear explanation, or itching that does not improve. A clinician can inspect the skin, ask about products and treatments, and check for infection or inflammatory skin disease. A small biopsy may be recommended when a patch or lump needs a definite diagnosis. Mention changes in size, colour, surface, pain and duration.

Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, rapidly spreading swelling, severe pain, fever with a worsening vulvar wound, or inability to pass urine. These symptoms can require prompt treatment even when the underlying cause is not cancer.

Ask whether the change looks infectious, inflammatory or suspicious, whether a biopsy is appropriate, how to protect irritated skin, and which changes should prompt an earlier return visit.