What to expect from radiotherapy for vulvar cancer

Before treatment, the team uses examination and imaging to mark the area and plan how radiation will reach the vulva and any nearby tissues. You lie in a set position for each visit; the radiation is not felt, and the session is monitored by the treatment team.

The skin of the vulva and groin may become red, sore, dry or moist as treatment continues. Urination may sting, and bowel movements may change when nearby tissues are included. Walking, sitting, sexual activity and clothing may feel less comfortable. Tiredness can build, so mention symptoms rather than waiting for them to become severe.

Wash gently with the products recommended by your team, pat dry and avoid friction. Choose loose clothing and ask before using creams, powders, wipes or deodorants on the treated skin. A nurse can explain dressings or pain relief if the skin becomes broken or very tender.

Drink and eat as advised, especially if urination or bowel changes reduce your intake. Ask about pelvic-floor, sexual-health and emotional support. Keep treatment appointments and tell the team about pain, discharge, bleeding, bowel changes or difficulty passing urine at each review.

Contact your team promptly if pain stops you walking, sleeping or passing urine, if the treated skin opens or produces new discharge, or if diarrhoea, bleeding or vomiting persists. Seek urgent help for fever with feeling unwell, heavy bleeding, inability to urinate, or rapidly worsening swelling.

Ask which tissues are included, how to protect and dress the treated skin, and what pain relief is appropriate. Ask how treatment may affect urination, bowel function, intimacy and fertility, and which symptoms should be reported the same day.