Cancer of the vulva is also called vulval cancer or vulvar cancer. It can start in any part of the female external sex organs. It most often affects the inner edges of the outer lips (labia majora) or the outer lips (labia minora).

Most vulval cancers do not form quickly. Usually, there is a gradual change in the cells. First, normal cells become abnormal. Then these abnormal cells may go on to develop into cancer.

The medical name for these abnormal cells is vulval epithelial neoplasm (VIN), or your doctor may call these pre cancerous changes.

This does not mean you have cancer. It is the stage before a cancer has developed. Some of these cell changes will go away without treatment. But finding these abnormal cells early and having treatment (if necessary) can prevent vulval cancer.

Not all types of vulval cancers have a pre cancerous or VIN stage. It is important to see your GP if you have any symptoms. They can tell you about treatments available or refer you to a specialist.

Source: Cancer Research UK

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/vulval-cancer/about