Vulvar Cancer Prevention
Can vulvar cancer be prevented?
Not all vulvar cancers can be prevented. However, some risk-reducing strategies may lower the likelihood of developing certain types of vulvar cancer or help identify precancerous changes before they progress.
Get vaccinated against HPV
HPV vaccination is one of the most important strategies for preventing HPV-associated cancers. The vaccine protects against several high-risk HPV types responsible for vulvar, cervical, vaginal, anal, and other cancers. In the United States, routine HPV vaccination is recommended at ages 11–12, although vaccination can begin at age 9. Catch-up vaccination is recommended through age 26 for those not adequately vaccinated. Adults ages 27–45 may consider vaccination after discussing their individual circumstances with a healthcare professional. HPV vaccination prevents new infections. It does not treat an existing HPV infection or established cancer.
Avoid smoking
Not smoking can help lower the risk of HPV-associated vulvar cancer and many other cancers. People who currently smoke can benefit from quitting at any age.
Manage lichen sclerosus
People diagnosed with vulvar lichen sclerosus should follow their clinician's treatment and monitoring recommendations. Treatment commonly involves prescription high-potency topical corticosteroids, such as clobetasol, used under medical supervision. Effective treatment can control inflammation and may reduce the risk of malignant progression. Any new thickened area, persistent ulcer, or lesion that does not respond to treatment should be evaluated.
Treat vulvar precancer
Appropriate treatment of high-grade vulvar precancer can reduce the likelihood that abnormal cells will progress to invasive cancer. Treatment may include surgical removal, laser procedures, or selected topical medications, depending on the lesion type. Differentiated VIN generally requires excision because of its higher risk of progression.
Practice awareness of vulvar changes
Become familiar with the usual appearance of your vulva and report changes that persist. You do not need to perform a formal examination on a rigid schedule. The goal is to recognize changes rather than ignore them.
Reduce HPV exposure
Condoms and other barrier methods can reduce HPV transmission but cannot eliminate the risk because HPV can affect skin not covered by a barrier. HPV vaccination remains an important preventive measure.
The Basics: HPV vaccination, avoiding smoking, appropriate treatment of vulvar skin conditions, and prompt evaluation of suspicious changes can help reduce risk. There is currently no guaranteed way to prevent all types of vulvar cancer.