What is Vulvar Cancer?

Vulvar cancer, or vulvalcancer is a cancer in the vulva. The vulva refers to the external genital organs of a female, and includes the labia majora, mons pubis, labia minora, clitoris, bulb of the vestibule, vestibule of the vagina, greater and lesser vestibular glands, and vaginal orifice.

Cancer of the vulva can start in any part of the external female sex organs. The most common areas for cancer to develop are the labia minora, the inner edges of the labia majora and the perineum. Less often, vulvar cancer may involve the clitoris. It can also begin in or spread to the Bartholin′s glands.

Typical symptoms include itching, bleeding and pain.

If the cancer originated in the vulva it is called primary vulvar cancer. If the cancer originated in another part of the body and then spread to the vulva it is called secondary vulvar cancer.