Changes to the vulva

People who have had surgery to their vulva have different feelings about looking at changes to their genital area. If you decide to look at your vulva, it is natural to feel shocked by any changes. If the labia have been removed, you will be able to see the opening to the vagina more clearly. If scar tissue has formed around the outside of the vagina, the entrance to the vagina will be narrower. If the clitoris has been removed, there will now be an area of flat skin without the usual folds of the vulva.

Radiation therapy may make your skin dry, itchy and tender in the treatment area. Your skin may temporarily look red, tanned or sunburnt, and then peel or blister. These skin reactions can be painful and may worsen in the two weeks after treatment finishes, but will gradually get better after that.

Tips for managing changes to the vulva

• After surgery to the vulva, some people don’t want to look at the area or prefer to do it alone or with a partner or close friend. Others want a nurse to be with them.
• After radiation therapy, use lukewarm water to wash your genital area and gently pat it dry with a towel. Avoid using any perfumed products or talcum powder on the area.
• Talk to your treatment team about creams to soothe and protect the skin, and also about pain relief if necessary.

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