Vulvar Cancer Treatment in India
Vulvar Cancer is a rare but serious gynecologic cancer that primarily affects the outer genitalia in women, often caused by HPV or chronic skin conditions. India offers advanced care with robotic-assisted surgery and evidence-based therapies at a highly affordable cost. The total treatment in India ranges from $4,200 to $7,000, while the same can cost $28,000 to $50,000 in the US or UK. With experts like Dr. Ankur Bahl, India is an ideal medical tourism hub for international patients.
What is Vulvar Cancer, and why is India a preferred destination for treatment?
Vulvar cancer is a rare type of gynecologic cancer that develops in the external female genitalia, such as the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, or vaginal opening. It often affects older women but can occur at any age, especially those with a history of HPV infection.
India has emerged as a global destination for affordable, high-quality cancer care. International patients benefit from expert oncologists, world-class hospitals, cutting-edge technologies like robotic surgery, and cost-effective packages that include treatment, accommodation, and recovery services — often at one-fifth the cost compared to Western countries.
What are the types of Vulvar Cancer?
There are two main types of vulvar cancer:
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma (90% of cases): Begins in the thin, flat cells lining the vulva.
- Adenocarcinoma: Starts in the glandular cells; rarer and more aggressive.
Other rare types include melanoma, sarcoma, and basal cell carcinoma.
What causes Vulvar Cancer, and who is at risk?
Causes:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Chronic vulvar conditions (e.g., lichen sclerosus)
- Immunosuppression (HIV/AIDS, organ transplants)
- Smoking
- Vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN), a precancerous condition
Risk Factors:
- Age (most common in women over 60)
- History of cervical or vaginal precancer
- Multiple sexual partners
- Weak immune system
What are the common symptoms of Vulvar Cancer?
- Persistent itching, pain, or burning in the vulvar area
- A visible lump or sore that doesn’t heal
- Bleeding unrelated to menstruation
- Skin color changes or thickening
- Pain during urination or intercourse
Early detection leads to better outcomes. Any persistent vulvar discomfort warrants medical attention.
How is Vulvar Cancer diagnosed in India? What’s the cost of tests?
Diagnosis typically includes:
|
Test |
Purpose |
Approx. Cost (USD) |
|
Pelvic Examination |
Visual and manual inspection |
Included in consult |
|
Colposcopy |
Magnified view of vulva |
$50 – $80 |
|
Biopsy |
Tissue sample to confirm cancer |
$80 – $120 |
|
Pap Smear & HPV Testing |
Check for coexisting cervical changes |
$40 – $60 |
|
MRI / CT Scan |
Check tumor spread |
$120 – $300 |
|
PET-CT Scan |
Detailed imaging of cancer metastasis |
$350 – $600 |
|
Blood Tests (CBC, Tumor Markers) |
Evaluate general health and organ function |
$40 – $70 |
Total diagnostic cost: Approximately $400 – $900, depending on the hospital and imaging requirements.
What is the standard treatment protocol for Vulvar Cancer in India?
Treatment depends on the stage, tumor size, and overall health of the patient.
1. Surgery
- First-line treatment in most cases
- Options: Wide local excision, Vulvectomy (partial/complete), Lymph node dissection
2. Radiation Therapy
- Used before surgery to shrink tumors or after to prevent recurrence
- External beam radiation (EBRT) or advanced image-guided techniques
3. Chemotherapy
- Usually combined with radiation for advanced cases
- Drugs like Cisplatin, 5-FU
4. Immunotherapy (select cases)
- Newer option for metastatic or recurrent cancer
- Drugs like Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)
What are the surgical procedures offered and their benefits?
|
Procedure |
Description |
Benefits |
|
Wide Local Excision |
Removal of tumor with healthy tissue margins |
Preserves vulvar function |
|
Vulvectomy (Partial/Total) |
Removal of part/all of the vulva |
Prevents cancer spread |
|
Lymphadenectomy |
Removal of groin lymph nodes |
Determines metastasis |
|
Reconstructive Surgery |
Cosmetic/functional repair post-vulvectomy |
Restores appearance and urinary function |
India offers these with robotic or laparoscopic approaches, ensuring faster recovery and minimal scarring.
What technologies are used for Vulvar Cancer treatment in India?
Top Indian hospitals use globally recognized devices:
- Robotic Surgery (da Vinci system)
- PET-CT Scanners
- High-precision IMRT/IGRT radiation
- 3D Conformal Radiotherapy (3D-CRT)
- MRI-guided surgery and planning
- Targeted drug delivery systems
These modern tools improve precision and minimize damage to healthy tissue.
What is the total cost breakdown for international patients?
|
Component |
Approx. Cost (USD) |
|
Initial Consultation |
$40 – $80 |
|
Diagnostic Tests |
$400 – $900 |
|
Surgery (e.g., Vulvectomy) |
$1,800 – $3,000 |
|
Radiation Therapy (5–6 weeks) |
$1,200 – $2,000 |
|
Chemotherapy (per cycle) |
$200 – $400 (3–6 cycles) |
|
Immunotherapy (if needed) |
$2,500+ per dose |
|
Hospital Stay (5–10 days) |
$300 – $700 |
|
Post-op Care & Follow-up |
$200 – $500 |
Total treatment cost: $4,200 – $7,000
How does India’s cost compare with other countries?
|
Country |
Average Treatment Cost (USD) |
|
India |
$4,200 – $7,000 |
|
USA |
$28,000 – $50,000 |
|
UK |
$25,000 – $40,000 |
|
Thailand |
$12,000 – $17,000 |
|
UAE |
$20,000 – $30,000 |
|
Singapore |
$18,000 – $27,000 |
India provides equivalent or superior care at 75–85% lower cost.
Why do international patients choose India for Vulvar Cancer treatment?
- Top-tier hospitals like Fortis, Max, Medanta, Apollo, Manipal
- Globally trained oncologists
- No waiting time
- Comprehensive packages including treatment + stay
- English-speaking medical staff
- Medical visa assistance
India’s medical tourism industry is internationally accredited and fully equipped to handle complex oncology cases.
Why choose Dr. Ankur Bahl for your cancer care?
- Renowned Medical Oncologist with 20+ years of experience
- Specializes in gynecologic, head & neck, and gastrointestinal cancers
- Senior Consultant at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon
- Trained in advanced chemotherapy and immunotherapy protocols
- Provides personalized treatment plans for international patients
Dr. Bahl is known for his warm patient-centric approach and ethical practices.
What is the recovery timeline and follow-up protocol?
- Hospital stay: 3–10 days depending on surgery type
- Recovery at home/guest facility: 2–4 weeks
- Return to light activity: Within 3–4 weeks
- Follow-ups: At 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and annually
Patients receive complete discharge plans and online video consultations for remote monitoring.
What support is available for international patients?
Indian hospitals offer end-to-end services:
- Visa invitation letters
- Airport pickup & drop
- Interpreters (Arabic, French, Russian, etc.)
- Local accommodation (hotels, guest houses)
- Dietary support and nursing care
- Currency exchange and concierge desk
You’re never alone — a dedicated international care team assists throughout your medical journey.
Do hospitals help with insurance, medical visas, or financing?
Yes. Most leading hospitals in India:
- Accept international health insurance (after pre-approval)
- Provide medical visa assistance
- Offer easy EMI/payment plans or packages for self-pay patients
You’ll receive a treatment estimate and formal invitation letter for visa processing.
How can I book a consultation or second opinion with Dr. Ankur Bahl?
You can easily:
- Request a video consultation with Dr. Bahl
- Upload medical records for review
- Get a cost estimate within 24–48 hours
- Schedule treatment + travel planning support
Choosing Vulvar Cancer treatment in India can save you thousands of dollars while ensuring world-class care. With expert oncologists like Dr. Ankur Bahl, cutting-edge hospitals, and compassionate international care services, India offers unmatched value and medical excellence. Start your journey to healing today
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. When detected early, vulvar cancer has a high treatment success rate. Surgical removal of the tumor, sometimes combined with radiation or chemotherapy, can lead to complete remission. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor for recurrence.
Most international patients stay for 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the treatment type:
-
Surgery only: 2–3 weeks (including recovery)
-
Surgery + Radiation/Chemo: 4–6 weeks
Your medical coordinator can help plan the trip and arrange accommodation.
Yes. Several top hospitals in India offer robotic-assisted surgeries using systems like da Vinci, especially for lymph node dissection and complex vulvectomy procedures. These lead to faster recovery, less scarring, and more precise tumor removal.
Absolutely. You can email or upload your medical records (biopsy, scans, reports) for a free medical opinion. The doctor will assess your case and provide a tentative treatment plan, cost estimate, and travel timeline.
No. Most hospitals have English-speaking staff, and interpreter services are available for Arabic, French, Russian, Spanish, and other languages. A dedicated international desk will support you throughout your treatment journey.
Yes. After your discharge, doctors in India offer teleconsultations and video follow-ups to track your recovery. You'll also receive a complete medical file and recommendations for ongoing care that your local physician can follow.
A typical package may include:
- Doctor consultations
- Hospital stay
- Surgery or therapy
- Diagnostic tests
- Post-op care
- Local transport & pickup
- Translator support
- Medical visa assistance