It is important for you to have honest, open discussions with your cancer care team. They want to answer all of your questions, no matter how trivial you might think they are.

Here are some questions to consider:

• What type of vulvar cancer do I have?
• Has my cancer spread beyond the vulva?
• What is the stage of my cancer and what does that mean in my case?
• What treatments are appropriate for me? What do you recommend? Why?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• What are the risks or side effects that I should expect?
• Will I be able to have children after my treatment?
• What are the chances my cancer will recur (come back) with the treatment programs we have discussed?
• Should I follow a special diet?
• What is my expected prognosis, based on my cancer as you view it?
• What do I tell my children, husband, parents, and other family members?

In addition to these sample questions, be sure to write down some questions of your own. For instance, you might want specific information about anticipated recovery times so you can plan your work schedule. Or, you may want to ask about second opinions or about clinical trials for which you may qualify.