The good news is that vaginal and vulvar cancers are very rare and are unusual in younger women. It tends to manifest itself on the vulva area as a sore or lump and causes itching.
Exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV) can increase the risk of these types of cancers in women.
It was reported by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) that vaginal and vulvar cancers only affect six to seven percent of all U.S. gynecologic cancer diagnoses and the treatment is extremely effective if discovered early on.
A woman’s vulva is the outer part of the female genital area and consists of the labia (two folds of skin). Vulvar cancer usually begins in the inner area of the labia. What’s comforting is that early detection can mean a quick cure and recovery.
Signs of Vulvar Cancer
You can help yourself here, and some of the signs of vulvar cancer to watch for include:
- Ulcers, sores, or lumps on the vulva.
- Bleeding, burning, or itching on the vulva.
- Pain in the pelvic area during sex or when you urinate.
- Rash, warts, or any skin changes on the vulva.
- Skin color changes such as redness or extremely white.
Signs of Vaginal Cancer
Cancer that begins in the vaginal area is naturally called vaginal cancer. The vagina (birth canal) is the area that appears as a long, hollow tube that begins at the bottom of the uterus and travels to the outside of the body.
Sometimes there are no symptoms of vaginal cancer in the early stages, but later the following signs may appear:
Constipation – Any change in bathroom habits such as constipation, going more often than normal, blood in the urine or stool.
Vaginal discharge – Any abnormal showing of blood or vaginal discharge of any type that isn’t normal.
Pelvic pain – Pain in the area below the stomach and between the hip bones when you urinate or have sexual intercourse could be a sign.
The best advice for women to catch vaginal and vulvar cancer early on is to get to know their bodies and what’s normal for them. Any unusual changes such as vaginal bleeding which isn’t normal should be checked by your doctor right away.
Precautionary Steps to Protect Yourself
You can protect yourself from contracting vaginal and vulvar cancers by taking steps to prevent catching the (human papillomavirus) since nearly all cervical and other gynecologic cancers are caused by this virus.
The HPV vaccine is available and recommended for girls and boys who are aged 11 to 12 years old. It’s usually given as a series of two or three shots. Even if you’ve had the HPV vaccine, you should have periodic screenings and Pap smear testing to check for these types of cancers.
While you’re there visiting your doctor, you can always ask about your breast health too!
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