Introduction
Vaginal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the vagina, or birth canal. There are several types of vaginal cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type. It begins in the thin, flat cells that line the vagina. It spreads slowly and most often stays near the vagina. In a few cases, it may spread to the lungs, liver, or bone. The other types of vaginal cancer are:
Adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that begins in cells that make fluids such as mucus.
Melanoma, a form of skin cancer.
Sarcoma, which is a tumor of connective tissue.
Vaginal cancer can often be cured when it is found early.
What are the causes?
The exact cause of this condition is not known.
What increases the risk?
The following factors may make you …show more content…
Smoking.
Having been exposed to the drug DES before birth. Between 1940 and 1971, this drug was given to some pregnant women to keep their babies from being born too soon.
Being 60 years of age or older. Women who are at least 70 years old have a higher risk.
Having a history of abnormal cells in the cervix or uterus.
Having had cervical or uterine cancer.
Having a hysterectomy to remove the uterus.
Having HIV.
What are the signs or symptoms?
Symptoms of this condition include:
Vaginal bleeding or discharge that is not caused by your menstrual period.
Pain during sexual intercourse or bleeding after sexual intercourse.
Pain in the pelvic area.
A lump in the vagina.
Pain when you urinate.
Constipation.
How is this diagnosed?
This condition may be diagnosed based on:
A physical exam and your medical history.
Pelvic exam to check the vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and rectum.
Pap test. This test involves collecting cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina.
Colposcopy. A lighted, magnifying instrument is used to check the vagina and cervix for abnormal areas.
Biopsy. Cells or tissues are removed from the vagina and cervix to be checked for signs of …show more content…
A thin, lighted tube is inserted into the rectum to look for cancer.
Cystoscopy. A thin tube with a lens and a light is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to look for cancer. If something suspicious is found, a biopsy may be done.
How is this treated?
Treatment for this condition may include:
Surgery to help remove the cancer from your body.
Radiation therapy. This treatment uses X-rays to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy drugs to kill cancer cells and keep them from growing.
Follow these instructions at home:
Follow your care plan as directed by your health care team.
Take good care of your overall health. A healthy lifestyle may help you recover quicker. This includes:
Following the diet that your health care provider recommends.
Getting plenty of exercise.
Not using any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care provider.
Do not drive or use heavy machinery while taking prescription pain medicine.
Do not lift anything that is heavier than the limit that your health care team tells you until they say that it is