What is the first treatment for vulvar cancer?

The operation removes the visible tumour with a margin of nearby tissue. The amount removed depends on the tumour’s position, size and depth, and whether nearby lymph nodes need assessment. The aim is to treat the cancer while preserving as much healthy vulvar tissue and function as possible.

Radiotherapy may be recommended before surgery to shrink a tumour, after surgery to treat areas at risk, or as the main treatment in selected situations. Your pathology report helps guide the next decision.

Ask what tissue will be removed, whether lymph nodes will be assessed, and how the operation may affect sitting, walking, urination and sexual comfort. Discuss wound care, pain relief, clothing, hygiene and the expected recovery plan before admission.

Tell the team about skin conditions, medicines that affect bleeding, and any concerns about body image or intimacy. Specialist nursing and pelvic health support can help with recovery. Do not apply products to the area unless your care team recommends them.

Get urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, fever, pus or a spreading redness around a wound, difficulty passing urine, or sudden shortness of breath.

What type of tumour removal surgery do you recommend? Will lymph nodes be checked? Could radiotherapy be needed before or after surgery? How should I care for the wound, and which changes require a call?