Can Vulvar Cancer Be Found Early?
Having pelvic exams and knowing any signs and symptoms of vulvar cancer greatly improve the chances of early detection and successful treatment. If you have any of the problems discussed in Signs and Symptoms of Vulvar Cancers and Pre-Cancers, you should see a doctor. If the doctor finds anything abnormal during a pelvic examination, you may need more tests to figure out what is wrong. This may mean referral to a gynecologist (specialist in problems of the female genital system).
Knowing what to look for can sometimes help with early detection, but it is even better not to wait until you notice symptoms. Get regular well-women exams.
There is no standard screening for this disease.
Symptoms depend on whether it is a cancer or pre-cancer and what kind of vulvar cancer it is.
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- References
Developed by the American Cancer Society medical and editorial content team with medical review and contribution by the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
Edwards CL, Tortolero-Luna G, Linares AC, Malpica A, Baker VV, Cook E, Johnson E, Follen Mitchell M. Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia and vulvar cancer. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 1996 Jun;23(2):295-324. PMID: 8784883.
Lee A, Fischer G. Diagnosis and Treatment of Vulvar Lichen Sclerosus: An Update for Dermatologists. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018 Oct;19(5):695-706.
Last Revised: May 2, 2025
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