Vulvar Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms of Vulvar Cancer 

Vulvar cancer appears as a lesion or ulcer on the external genitalia, or vulva.

  • The texture or color of the skin may look different than the normal skin around it. It might be thicker, lighter or darker or look black, brown, red, pink, white or other colors.
  • There may be a bump, which might look like a wart (or grouping of warts) or an open sore.

Take Charge of Your Health

Talk to your primary care provider if you have symptoms that you think may be vulvar cancer. UW Medicine Primary Care can help you get started. Learn about Fred Hutch's relationship with UW Medicine. 

Other Signs and Symptoms of Vulvar Cancer

Some people have itching of vulva skin that doesn’t go away, pain, burning, bleeding or other discharge that isn’t typical.

Some vulvar cancers are a type of skin cancer called melanoma. They may start from a mole that you’ve already had for a while. If a mole starts to change, it could be a sign of melanoma. Follow the “ABCDE” guide when checking your moles.

The same signs or symptoms may be caused by other conditions that aren’t cancer. If you have any signs or symptoms, let your primary care provider know. They can help you figure out the cause.

Vulvar Cancer Symptoms FAQ

Some people may have symptoms in the early stages of vulvar cancer, when it’s smaller and easier to treat successfully. In some cases, vulvar cancer has been developing for a while and is advanced before a person has any signs or symptoms that might cause her concern.

Your health care provider will ask you about your symptoms, your health history and your family history. They may ask about factors that might put you at risk for cancer or other conditions that might cause the same symptoms. They’ll examine you to check for clues about what’s been bothering you. Your provider will probably do a general physical exam and then a pelvic exam.

Based on your conversation and exam, your provider may order tests to get more information. Learn more about diagnosis.