Explore Cancer & Blood DisordersVaginal Cancer
What Is Vaginal Cancer?
Vaginal cancer is a very rare gynecologic cancer that originates in the vagina. Early-stage vaginal cancer may present with bleeding or may be found on routine gynecologic exams or a Pap smear, and the later stages may be associated with bleeding and pain.
Symptoms
Symptoms generally don’t occur during the early stages of vaginal cancer. Once the cancer progresses to the later stages, you might experience vaginal bleeding in between periods or after menopause, a lump or mass in the vagina, pelvic pain, pain while urinating, or constipation.
Diagnosis
After a physical exam and discussion about your family medical history, your doctor may order blood tests to look for cancer markers in your blood. Your doctor may then order a colposcopy, where the vagina is viewed with a microscope that can magnify the tissue. A tissue sample may be removed and sent to a lab for further examination if cancer is suspected.
Treatment
Treatment of vaginal cancer may involve surgery to remove part or all of the vagina. Sometimes, a hysterectomy is also performed. In addition, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be indicated. Your team of medical professionals will create a treatment plan tailored to the specific location and stage of the cancer.
Outcome
Vaginal cancer is curable. The earlier vaginal cancer is caught, the higher the rate of survival. Most patients can live for 5 years and beyond if the cancer is treated in the early stages. If you suspect you are at risk for vaginal cancer, talk to your doctor about your concerns.
Nurse Navigator
Alicja Paci, BSN, RN
Diagnosis, Ovarian, Endometrial, Cervical and Other Gynecologic Cancers, Prostate, Kidney, Bladder and Testicular Cancer
Phone: 860-505-9104
Email: paci@uchc.edu
Fax: 860-676-3437
Nurse Navigators are here to help you through your entire health journey, diagnosis through treatment.