Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer develops in the vagina, the muscular tube connecting the vulva to the cervix. It is very rare, accounting for 1–2% of gynaecological cancers. Most cases occur in women over 60, but early detection improves treatment success.

Causes & Risk Factors

• HPV Infection: High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) causes 65–70% of cases.
• Age: Most common in women over 60.
• Pre-Cancerous Changes: Vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN).
• Other Risks:
  • Previous cervical or vulvar cancer.
  • Smoking.
  • Weakened immune system (e.g., HIV).

Symptoms

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding (after sex, between periods, or post-menopause).
• Watery, foul-smelling discharge.
• Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse.
• A lump or mass in the vagina.
• Frequent urination or constipation.

Prevention

• HPV Vaccine: Protects against high-risk HPV strains (ages 9–45).
• Safe Sex: Use condoms to reduce HPV exposure.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases cancer risk.
• Treat Pre-Cancer: Address VAIN promptly.

Screening

• Routine Screening: There’s no standard test for asymptomatic individuals.
• High-Risk Patients:
  • Pelvic Exams and smear Tests: May detect abnormal cells (though smear tests primarily screen for cervical cancer).
  • HPV Testing: For those with prior HPV-related cancers.
• Symptom Vigilance: Persistent symptoms require immediate evaluation.

Diagnosis & Treatment

• Diagnosis:
  • Pelvic Exam: To check for lumps or sores.
  • Colposcopy: Magnified exam of the vagina and cervix.
  • Biopsy: Removes tissue for testing (definitive diagnosis).
  • Imaging: CT, MRI, or PET scans to check for spread.

• Treatment Options:
  • Surgery: Removal of cancerous tissue (e.g., local excision, partial/full vaginectomy).
  • Radiation: Common for most stages, often combined with chemotherapy.
  • Chemotherapy: Used for advanced or recurrent cases.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is vaginal cancer linked to HPV? 
A: Yes, in most cases.

Q:Can a smear test detect it? 
A:Rarely—smear tests focus on cervical cells.

Q:Is it hereditary? 
A: No, but prior gynaecological cancers increase risk.

Q:What’s the survival rate?80–90% 5-year survival for localized cancer.
15–50% for advanced stages.

Q: Can it recur? 
Yes, ongoing follow-up is essential.

eGynaecologist Advice:

• You should consult a gynaecologist if you have any abnormal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain
• Early stages of cancer may have no symptoms; however, you should seek gynaecological opinion if you notice persistent changes which are unusual to you
• Regular follow up checks after treatment with your gynaecologist are important to monitor your health and prevent complications of recurrence of cancer