
About Cancer
Vulval cancer is a rare cancer. It is sometimes called vulvar cancer. Vulval cancer can start in any part of the vulva. The vulva is the area between a woman’s legs that includes the external sex organs.
The treatment you need depends on how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. The most common treatment is surgery.
Vulval cancer is when abnormal cells in the vulva start to divide and grow in an uncontrolled way.
Vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) is a skin condition of the vulva. Find out about symptoms and treatment options.
Not everyone diagnosed with vulval cancer will have symptoms. Things to look out for include an open sore or lesion in the vulva.
You usually start by seeing your GP. They ask about your symptoms and examine you. Your GP then decides whether to refer you to a specialist.
The stage of vulval cancer tells you how big it is and whether it has spread. The grade means how abnormal the cells look under the microscope. They help your doctor plan your treatment.
Your treatment depends on a number of factors. Surgery is the most common treatment for vulval cancer.
Survival for vulval cancer depends on several factors including the age at the time of diagnosis and the type of vulval cancer.
Find out about the latest UK research into vulval cancer, clinical trials and how you can take part.
Advice and support is available to help you cope with vulval cancer and its treatment.
We don’t know what causes all vulval cancers. But there are some factors that may increase your risk of developing it.
Last reviewed: 26 Aug 2025
Next review due: 26 Aug 2028
This section has been written, reviewed and updated by Cancer Research UK’s Patient Information Web Team. Thanks to the expert medical professionals and people affected by cancer who have helped to review this information.
Dr Kate Lankester (Consultant Clinical Oncologist)

About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
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