Follow up after vulval cancer treatment

After treatment for vulval cancer, you have regular check ups at the hospital. Over time, these appointments become less frequent. How long you have follow up depends on the type of vulval cancer you have. 

Why you have follow up appointments

You usually have follow up appointments to check how you are and see whether you have any problems or worries. The appointments also give you the chance to raise any concerns you have about your progress.

How often are my check ups?

How often you see your specialist depends on:

• how you are feeling
• the type of vulval cancer you have
• the type of treatment you have had
• whether you had any vulval skin conditions such as vulval intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN)

You usually have follow up appointments every 3 to 6 months for 2 years. After 2 years, you may have follow up every 6 to 12 months. This usually continues for 3 years. 

What happens?

Your doctor or nurse examines you at each appointment. They ask how you are feeling, whether you have had any symptoms or side effects, and if you are worried about anything. You might also have tests at some visits.

Your doctor will want to monitor you closely to check there are no signs of the cancer coming back. Or if it does come back, to spot it before you have any symptoms. 

Your doctor may also suggest that you examine yourself routinely. This is called self examination. Do speak to your nurse or doctor about this if you have any concerns.

Between appointments

Contact your doctor or specialist nurse if you have any concerns between appointments. You should also contact them if you notice any new symptoms. You don’t have to wait until your next visit.

Many people find their check ups quite worrying. A hospital appointment can bring back any anxiety you had about your cancer.

It can help to tell someone close to you how you’re feeling. Sharing your worries can mean they don’t seem so overwhelming. Many people find it helpful to have counselling during or after cancer treatment.

You can also find people to share experiences with by using our online forum, CancerChat.