Preventing and Treating Cervical, Vulvar, and Vaginal Cancers: What You Need to Know

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September 10, 2025 | 10:12 am

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - About seven out of ten cases of vulvar and vaginal cancers are associated with a high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is also the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV can infect the cervix, vagina, and vulva, and can trigger pre-cancerous changes that may develop into cancer.

In fact, most cases of vaginal cancer originate from an untreated HPV infection in the cervix. Therefore, prevention and screening play a crucial role in reducing the risk of vulvar and vaginal cancers.

Preventing Vulvar and Vaginal Cancers

Being aware of symptoms and risks early on is vital to support the early detection of vulvar and vaginal cancers. Nonetheless, prevention remains the primary step in reducing the likelihood of developing these diseases. Here are the prevention measures that can be taken to maintain women's reproductive health:

1. HPV Vaccination

HPV vaccination is recommended for women aged 9 to 45 years, as it can reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers, including vulvar and vaginal cancers. For those who are sexually active, consulting a gynecologist is necessary to determine the appropriate type of vaccine. This step is one of the most effective prevention measures before pre-cancerous changes occur.

2. Regular Screening

Cervical examinations, such as pap smears or HPV tests, are still recommended according to national guidelines, as untreated cervical infections can increase the risk of vaginal and vulvar cancers. Screening helps to detect pre-cancerous changes that may not cause any symptoms. With early detection, treatment can be administered promptly, increasing the chances of recovery.

3. Control of Chronic Skin Conditions

Chronic skin diseases in the vulva area, such as lichen sclerosus or lichen planus, when left untreated, can increase the risk of cancer. Regular examinations and periodic follow-ups are recommended to reduce prolonged inflammation. This is important to prevent pre-cancerous cell changes that may potentially develop into cancer.

4. Behavioral and Medical Risk Factors

Several factors, such as smoking, weakened immune systems, and having multiple sexual partners, can increase the risk of persistent HPV infection. Reducing these risk factors is crucial in preventing vulvar and vaginal cancers. By understanding and managing the risk factors, the opportunity to prevent the development of pre-cancerous cells can significantly increase.

Treatment for Cervical, Vulvar, and Vaginal Cancers

According to CNA, women experiencing suspicious symptoms, such as prolonged itching, abnormal bleeding, or the appearance of lumps in the genital area, should promptly consult a doctor or gynecologist. Early examinations are important for assessing the condition and determining further diagnostic steps. With appropriate early management, the likelihood of early detection can increase, and the risk of complications can be minimized.

If suspicious lesions are found, doctors usually recommend a biopsy to determine whether the lesions are pre-cancerous or cancerous. The biopsy results form the basis for determining the most suitable therapy for the patient's condition. Treatment can include surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, either individually or in combination, tailored to individual needs.

The treatment for cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers depends on the stage and location of the cancer when diagnosed. Treatment options may include surgery to remove affected tissues, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, either individually or in combination. The appropriate approach will be customized by a specialist doctor to maximize treatment success and minimize complications.

In addition to medical treatment, early detection remains a critical factor in increasing treatment effectiveness. Patients undergoing regular screening and HPV vaccination have a greater chance of recovery, as cancers can be detected before spreading or worsening. Therefore, maintaining reproductive health through prevention, screening, and managing risk factors is crucial to minimize the impact of these diseases.

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