The vulva is the name given to all of the female external organs, including the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening. It is the outer part of a woman’s vagina.
The physical symptoms of vulvar cancer include :
• persistent and localized itching in the vulva.
• sometimes a small sore (ulceration) or induration in the vulva
Cancer of the vulva is associated with the following risk factors : diabetes and age. Most of the affected women are over 50 years old. Women with HPV * are also at risk.
Vulvar cancer is rare and curable if discovered early. Unfortunately, it is on the increase especially among women under 50.
* The abbreviation HPV stands for Human Papillomavirus. The English expression HPV is also used, it translates to Human Papillomavirus.