Questions to Ask About Vulvar Cancer

What type of vulvar cancer do I have?

Is my cancer associated with HPV?

What did my biopsy show?

What is the grade of my cancer?

How deeply has the cancer invaded the surrounding tissue?

Do I have any precancerous changes in other areas of the vulva?

Should I see a gynecologic oncologist?

Would a second opinion be helpful?

What stage is my vulvar cancer?

Has the cancer spread beyond the vulva?

Are any lymph nodes involved?

Do I need additional imaging tests?

What does my stage mean for my prognosis?

Is my cancer considered curable?

What type of surgery do you recommend?

How much vulvar tissue will need to be removed?

Can the cancer be removed with a tissue-sparing approach?

Will I need a sentinel lymph node biopsy?

Will any groin lymph nodes need to be removed?

Is reconstructive surgery an option?

How long will recovery take?

What are the risks of wound complications?

How might surgery affect sexual function or sensation?

Will I need additional treatment after surgery?

Why is radiation recommended?

Which areas of my body will receive radiation?

How many treatments will I need?

What side effects should I expect?

Could radiation cause long-term skin or vaginal changes?

How can I reduce the risk of lymphedema?

Will radiation be combined with chemotherapy?

Is chemotherapy recommended for my cancer?

Which medications would I receive?

What is the goal of treatment?

What side effects are most likely?

What medications can help prevent nausea or other side effects?

Should my tumor undergo biomarker testing?

Is immunotherapy an option for my situation?

Are there targeted therapies or clinical trials I should consider?

How can I manage vulvar pain or irritation?

When can I return to normal activities?

Will treatment affect my bladder or bowel function?

What should I expect regarding sexual health?

Would pelvic floor physical therapy help?

Are there support groups specifically for gynecologic cancer?

Can I meet with an oncology social worker or counselor?

How often will I need follow-up appointments?

What symptoms could indicate that the cancer has returned?

Will I need regular imaging?

Should I continue seeing a dermatologist or gynecologist for vulvar skin conditions?

What can I do to reduce the risk of recurrence?

How will we manage long-term side effects?

Are there clinical trials available for my type and stage of vulvar cancer?

Would participating in a clinical trial be appropriate for me?

Are there trials at other cancer centers?

What are the potential benefits and risks?

How would participation affect my current treatment plan?