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.
2. 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).
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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
- Is vaginal cancer linked to HPV?
Yes, in most cases.
- Can a smear test detect it?
Rarely—smear tests focus on cervical cells.
- Is it hereditary?
No, but prior gynaecological cancers increase risk.
- What’s the survival rate?
- 80–90% 5-year survival for localized cancer.
- 15–50% for advanced stages.
- 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
