Vaginal Cancer (Symptoms,Causes and Treatment)

Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that starts in the cells of the vagina, which is the muscular tube that connects the uterus to the outside of the body. There are different types of vaginal cancer, but the most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, which develops in the cells lining the surface of the vagina.

Vaginal cancer can cause symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, pain during sexual intercourse, and a lump or mass in the vagina. Risk factors for vaginal cancer include age, exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero, a history of cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, smoking, and a weakened immune system.

Treatment options for vaginal cancer depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the person’s overall health. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. It’s important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms of vaginal cancer or have concerns about your risk factors. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes and quality of life.

This article covers the following topics :

What is vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the cells lining the surface of the vagina, which is the muscular tube that connects the uterus to the outside of the body. There are different types of vaginal cancer, but the most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, which develops in the squamous cells that line the vagina. Vaginal cancer can be aggressive and can spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes.

Symptoms of vaginal cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, pain during sexual intercourse, and a lump or mass in the vagina. However, many women with vaginal cancer may not experience any symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease.

Risk factors for vaginal cancer include age, exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero, a history of cervical cancer, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, smoking, and a weakened immune system.

Diagnosis of vaginal cancer typically involves a pelvic exam, imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI, and a biopsy to examine the tissue for cancerous cells. If vaginal cancer is diagnosed, further testing may be done to determine the stage of the cancer and the extent of the spread.

Treatment options for vaginal cancer depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the person’s overall health. Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these treatments. In some cases, a combination of treatments may be used to achieve the best possible outcome.

It’s important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms of vaginal cancer or have concerns about your risk factors. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes and quality of life. Women who are at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer may benefit from regular screenings and discussions with their healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies.

In some cases, vaginal cancer may recur after treatment. Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are important to monitor for any signs of recurrence and to ensure ongoing care and support.

What are the different types of vaginal cancer?

There are several different types of vaginal cancer, which are classified based on the type of cells that are involved. The most common type of vaginal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which develops in the squamous cells that line the vagina. Other types of vaginal cancer include:

1-Adenocarcinoma: This type of vaginal cancer develops in the glandular cells that line the vagina.

2-Clear cell carcinoma: This rare type of vaginal cancer is usually linked to exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero.

3-Melanoma: This type of vaginal cancer develops in the pigment-producing cells in the skin of the vagina.

4-Sarcoma: This rare type of vaginal cancer develops in the connective tissue cells that support the vaginal walls.

5-Vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN): This is a pre-cancerous condition that involves abnormal cells in the lining of the vagina.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of vaginal cancer, accounting for about 85% of cases. Adenocarcinoma accounts for about 10% of cases, while the other types are rare. The specific type of vaginal cancer a person has will determine the course of treatment and the overall prognosis.

How common is vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer, accounting for less than 1% of all gynecologic cancers diagnosed in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 6,330 new cases of vaginal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2022, and an estimated 1,850 women will die from the disease.

Vaginal cancer can occur at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 60. Women who were exposed to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero may also be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

While vaginal cancer is rare, it is important for women to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors associated with the disease. Regular gynecologic exams and discussions with a healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies can help detect vaginal cancer early and improve outcomes.

Who gets vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer can occur in women of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 60. Women who were exposed to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero may also be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

Other risk factors for vaginal cancer include:

1-Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Women who have been infected with certain types of HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection, may be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

2-Smoking: Women who smoke cigarettes are at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

3-History of cervical cancer: Women who have a history of cervical cancer may be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

4-Weakened immune system: Women with weakened immune systems, such as those who have had an organ transplant or who have HIV/AIDS, may be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

5-Age: Vaginal cancer is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 60.

It’s important for women to be aware of the risk factors for vaginal cancer and to discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider. Regular gynecologic exams and discussions with a healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies can help detect vaginal cancer early and improve outcomes.

What are the signs and symptoms of vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer may not cause any symptoms in the early stages, but as the cancer grows, it may cause the following signs and symptoms:

1-Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This may include bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods, or bleeding during or after sexual intercourse.

2-Vaginal discharge: This may be thick, white, or discolored and may have a foul odor.

3-Pain during sexual intercourse: This may be caused by the presence of a lump or growth in the vagina.

4-Painful urination: This may be caused by the cancer pressing on the bladder or urethra.

5-Constipation: This may be caused by the cancer pressing on the rectum.

6-Pelvic pain: This may be caused by the cancer pressing on nearby organs or nerves.

7-A lump or mass in the vagina: This may be felt during a self-examination or by a healthcare provider during a pelvic exam.

It’s important to note that these symptoms may be caused by conditions other than vaginal cancer, but if you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Regular gynecologic exams and discussions with a healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies can help detect vaginal cancer early and improve outcomes.

What causes vaginal cancer?

The exact cause of vaginal cancer is not known, but certain factors may increase the risk of developing the disease. These risk factors include:

1-Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain types of HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection, are known to increase the risk of developing vaginal cancer.

2-Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES): Women who were exposed to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero may be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

3-Smoking: Women who smoke cigarettes are at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

4-History of cervical cancer: Women who have a history of cervical cancer may be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

5-Age: Vaginal cancer is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 60.

6-Weakened immune system: Women with weakened immune systems, such as those who have had an organ transplant or who have HIV/AIDS, may be at higher risk of developing vaginal cancer.

It’s important to note that not all women with risk factors will develop vaginal cancer, and some women with no known risk factors may still develop the disease. Regular gynecologic exams and discussions with a healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies can help detect vaginal cancer early and improve outcomes.

How does vaginal cancer spread?

Vaginal cancer can spread to nearby organs and tissues, as well as to distant parts of the body, through a process called metastasis. The extent and direction of the spread of vaginal cancer depend on the stage of the cancer, the location of the tumor, and other factors.

In the early stages of vaginal cancer, the cancer cells are usually confined to the lining of the vagina and may not have spread to other parts of the body. As the cancer grows and advances, it can spread to nearby organs and tissues, such as the cervix, uterus, bladder, rectum, and pelvic lymph nodes.

If the cancer is not treated, it can eventually spread to distant parts of the body, such as the lungs, liver, or bones. This is known as metastatic vaginal cancer.

The spread of vaginal cancer can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, discomfort, and difficulty with urination or bowel movements. It’s important to seek medical attention promptly if you experience any symptoms of vaginal cancer or have concerns about your risk factors. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes and quality of life.

How is vaginal cancer diagnosed?

Vaginal cancer is usually diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsies. The diagnostic process may involve the following steps:

1-Pelvic exam: A healthcare provider will perform a pelvic exam to check for any abnormalities in the vagina or cervix.

2-Colposcopy: If an abnormality is detected during the pelvic exam, a colposcopy may be done to examine the tissue in more detail. During a colposcopy, a healthcare provider uses a special magnifying instrument called a colposcope to examine the vagina and cervix.

3-Biopsy: If abnormal tissue is detected during the pelvic exam or colposcopy, a biopsy may be done to remove a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope. The biopsy can help determine if the tissue is cancerous or noncancerous.

4-Imaging tests: If vaginal cancer is suspected, imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan may be done to determine the stage and extent of the cancer.

5-Pathology: If cancer is detected, the healthcare provider will determine the type and stage of the cancer through a process called pathology. Pathology involves examining the cancer cells under a microscope to determine their characteristics and behavior.

6-Staging: Once the type and stage of the cancer are determined, the healthcare provider will assign a stage to the cancer based on the size and location of the tumor, whether it has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

How is vaginal cancer treated?

The treatment for vaginal cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the person’s overall health, and their preferences for treatment. Treatment options for vaginal cancer may include:

1-Surgery: Surgery may be done to remove the tumor and any nearby tissues that may be affected by the cancer.

2-Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery, or as the primary treatment for vaginal cancer.

3-Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with radiation therapy or as the primary treatment for vaginal cancer.

4-Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It may be used in combination with other treatments for vaginal cancer.

5-Palliative care: Palliative care focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life for people with advanced or metastatic vaginal cancer.

The specific treatment plan for vaginal cancer will depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the person’s overall health and preferences for treatment. It’s important to discuss all of the available treatment options with a healthcare provider and to make an informed decision about the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

How can I reduce my risk of getting vaginal cancer?

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing vaginal cancer:

1-Get vaccinated against HPV: The HPV vaccine can protect against certain types of HPV that can cause vaginal cancer.

2-Practice safe sex: Using condoms during sexual intercourse can help reduce the risk of HPV infection and other sexually transmitted infections that can increase the risk of vaginal cancer.

3-Quit smoking: Smoking cigarettes is a known risk factor for vaginal cancer, so quitting smoking can help reduce your risk.

4-Attend regular gynecologic exams: Regular gynecologic exams can help detect vaginal cancer early or identify pre-cancerous changes in the vagina.

5-Be aware of your family history: If you have a family history of vaginal cancer or other types of cancer, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk and any screening or prevention strategies that may be appropriate.

6-Practice good overall health habits: Eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise can help reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including vaginal cancer.

It’s important to discuss your individual risk factors and risk reduction strategies with a healthcare provider. Regular gynecologic exams and discussions with a healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies can help detect vaginal cancer early and improve outcomes.

What is the outlook for vaginal cancer?

The outlook for vaginal cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the cancer, the person’s overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. Early detection and treatment can improve the outlook for vaginal cancer.

The 5-year survival rate for vaginal cancer varies depending on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rates for vaginal cancer are as follows:

*Stage 0: Nearly 100%

*Stage I: About 75-80%

*Stage II: About 60%

*Stage III: About 30-40%

*Stage IV: About 15-20%

It’s important to note that survival rates are estimates and do not necessarily reflect an individual’s experience with cancer. Each person’s experience with cancer is unique and influenced by a variety of factors.

Regular gynecologic exams and discussions with a healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies can help detect vaginal cancer early and improve outcomes. If you have been diagnosed with vaginal cancer, it’s important to discuss your individual prognosis and treatment options with a healthcare provider.

Can you get cancer in your vagina?

Yes, vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that can occur in the vagina. It is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 60, but can occur in women of all ages. The exact cause of vaginal cancer is not known, but certain factors, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero, may increase the risk of developing the disease.

Symptoms of vaginal cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, pain during sexual intercourse, painful urination, constipation, pelvic pain, and a lump or mass in the vagina. Regular gynecologic exams and discussions with a healthcare provider about risk reduction strategies can help detect vaginal cancer early and improve outcomes.

Treatment for vaginal cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and palliative care. The specific treatment plan for vaginal cancer will depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the person’s overall health and preferences for treatment.

What cancer causes vaginal bleeding?

Several types of cancer can cause vaginal bleeding, including:

1-Vaginal cancer: Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse or menopause.

2-Cervical cancer: Cervical cancer is a common type of cancer that can cause vaginal bleeding, especially after sexual intercourse.

3-Endometrial cancer: Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the uterus and can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.

4-Ovarian cancer: Ovarian cancer can cause vaginal bleeding or discharge, especially if it has spread to the reproductive organs or other nearby tissues.

5-Uterine cancer: Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the uterus and can cause abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.

It’s important to note that vaginal bleeding can be caused by many factors other than cancer, such as hormonal imbalances, infections, and certain medications. However, if you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

What does vaginal cancer feel like?

In the early stages, vaginal cancer may not cause any symptoms, but as the cancer grows, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

1-Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This may include bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods, or bleeding during or after sexual intercourse.