When is colposcopy recommended for vulval cancer?

A colposcope is a lighted magnifying instrument used to inspect the vulval skin and nearby tissue. The device stays outside the body. The clinician may apply a solution that makes abnormal areas easier to see, then decide whether a small tissue sample is needed. Colposcopy helps locate and assess a concerning area; it does not by itself confirm cancer.

The recommendation may follow a persistent change in colour, texture, thickness, ulceration, bleeding, itching, or a lump. These findings can have causes other than cancer, so examination and testing are needed to identify the cause.

Tell the clinic about pregnancy, bleeding, allergies, medicines, and any treatment already used on the vulval skin. Avoid applying creams or products immediately before the visit unless the clinic tells you otherwise. Write down when the change began and whether it has altered, bled, become sore, or failed to heal.

Ask what will happen during the examination, whether a biopsy is planned, and when results or follow-up will be discussed. You can request an explanation at each stage and bring someone for support if the clinic allows it.

Arrange medical assessment for a vulval sore, lump, skin change, bleeding, or itching that persists, returns, or changes. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding, severe or rapidly increasing pain, fever with worsening redness or swelling, or difficulty passing urine. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe before reporting a new persistent lesion.

Useful questions include: Why do you recommend colposcopy for this area? Could I need a biopsy? How should I care for the skin afterwards? When will I receive the result, and what follow-up would be needed?