12 Signs of Skin Cancer

8. A lump or sore on the vulva

The vulva is part of female genitalia. It includes the opening of the vagina, the inner and outer lips, and the clitoris. Two types of melanomas can develop on the vulva: cutaneous, which is usually on the outer labia, and mucosal, which starts in the inner parts of the vulva and its lips, near the vaginal entrance. It also may develop on the clitoris. Vulva melanomas make up less than two percent of the total number of melanomas in women. They may appear as a lump, but many of them first appear in an existing mole. The melanoma may be a dark brown or black spot on the skin, but some are pink, red, or white. Some women also experience pain, itching, or discharge.