Vulvar cancer most often occurs on the outer vaginal lips (labia majora), but it can also show up on the inner lips or clitoris. [2] X Trustworthy Source National Cancer Institute An agency in the National Institutes of Health focused on cancer research and patient support Go to source
Asymmetry: one half doesn’t match the other Border irregularity: the edges are ragged Color: not uniform; could include shades of tan, brown, or black or patches of red, blue, or white Diameter: wider than 1/4 inch (6 mm) Evolving: changes in size, shape, or color
Asymmetry: one half doesn’t match the other Border irregularity: the edges are ragged Color: not uniform; could include shades of tan, brown, or black or patches of red, blue, or white Diameter: wider than 1/4 inch (6 mm) Evolving: changes in size, shape, or color
Remember: there’s nothing gross or shameful about knowing your own body. Many symptoms involve something that isn’t normal for you—that means you need to know what is normal for you.
Your doctor will do a complete pelvic exam and also talk to you about your medical history. This helps them determine your risk for developing vulvar cancer. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Cancer Institute An agency in the National Institutes of Health focused on cancer research and patient support Go to source
Your doctor might recommend surgical removal of any lump or growth, even if it’s not cancerous. If the biopsy reveals cancer, you’ll likely have other tests to determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.
Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition that makes the vulvar skin thin and itchy. About 4% of the people diagnosed with lichen sclerosus develop vulvar cancer. [22] X Research source
If you and your long-term partner want to stop using condoms with each other, make sure you both get tested for STIs first.
Older teens and adults might need multiple rounds of the vaccine to get the same level of protection as 12-14-year-olds who take the vaccine.
