Vaginal cancer is a rare yet serious form of cancer that develops in the cells lining the vagina. It is developed when abnormal cells in the lining of the vagina begin to grow uncontrollably. Although it is a rare form of cancer, it can significantly affect a woman’s reproductive and overall health if not detected early.
The condition often shows mild or no symptoms in its early stages, making early detection through regular check-ups crucial. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and risk factors can help women stay informed and seek timely medical guidance. At Venkateshwar Hospital, our specialists combine advanced diagnostic tools with comprehensive treatment to provide effective care for vaginal cancer.
What is Vaginal Cancer?
Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that develops when cells in the lining of the vagina undergo DNA mutations, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumours. The vagina is the muscular canal connecting the uterus to the external genitals. It most commonly affects women over 60, though it can occur at any age.
Compared to other gynecologic cancers, vaginal cancer is very uncommon, making awareness essential for women’s health. Symptoms can be subtle, such as unusual vaginal bleeding, painful urination, or a lump in the pelvic area, but regular pelvic exams and Pap smears can help detect it early. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes and recovery.
Vaginal Cancer Symptoms
Early Symptoms
In the initial stages, vaginal cancer may not show any noticeable signs. However, certain early indicators can help with early detection. Common early vaginal cancer symptoms include:
- Unusual vaginal bleeding: Especially after sexual intercourse or menopause.
- Watery or foul-smelling discharge: Persistent abnormal discharge that differs from regular secretions.
- Pelvic pain: A dull ache or pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Pain during intercourse: Discomfort or pain while having sexual contact.
Advanced Symptoms
When the disease progresses, symptoms may become more severe and interfere with daily activities. These may include:
- Difficulty urinating or frequent urination – caused by the tumour pressing on the bladder or urinary tract.
- Constipation – when the growth affects the nearby rectum or intestines.
- Pain in the pelvis or lower back – due to pressure or invasion of surrounding tissues.
- Noticeable lump or mass in the vagina – a visible or palpable growth indicating tumour development.
Persistent changes should never be overlooked, and consulting a healthcare provider promptly can help determine whether these symptoms are due to cancer or another underlying condition.
Vaginal Cancer Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of vaginal cancer is often unknown, but certain infections, genetic changes, medical history, and lifestyle factors can increase the risk. Understanding these causes and risk factors helps women stay informed and take timely steps for prevention and early detection.
Known Causes
The exact cause of vaginal cancer is not always clear, but several factors have been linked to its development:
- Genetic changes: Mutations in cell DNA cause cells to grow uncontrollably and form tumours.
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection: HPV is one of the leading vaginal cancer causes, known to alter normal cells and increase cancer risk.
- History of cervical cancer: Women treated for cervical cancer or pre-cancerous lesions are at a higher risk of developing vaginal cancer later in life.
Risk Factors
Certain conditions and lifestyle choices can raise the risk of vaginal cancer:
- Age: The disease is more common in women over 60.
- Previous radiation therapy: Radiation in the pelvic area can increase susceptibility.
- Smoking: Chemicals in tobacco can damage healthy cells in the vaginal lining.
- DES exposure: Women whose mothers took diethylstilbestrol (DES), a drug used decades ago to prevent miscarriage, have a higher risk of a specific vaginal cancer type called clear cell adenocarcinoma.
Being aware of these risks enables women to have informed discussions with their doctors regarding screening and preventive measures.
When to See a Doctor?
Early vaginal cancer symptoms can resemble other minor gynaecological issues, such as infections or hormonal changes. However, if symptoms persist, it is important to get them checked.
Seek medical advice if you experience:
- Unexplained bleeding unrelated to menstruation.
- Painful urination or discomfort during intercourse.
- Persistent discharge or pelvic pain.
Routine pelvic examinations and Pap smears can help identify abnormal cells even before symptoms appear. For comprehensive assessment and timely care, consult the experts at Venkateshwar Hospital.
Diagnosis and Medical Approach
Diagnosing vaginal cancer involves a series of evaluations to confirm the presence and extent of the disease.
Common diagnostic methods include:
- Pap smear: This test detects abnormal or cancerous cells in the cervix and vagina.
- Colposcopy: A magnifying device allows doctors to examine the vaginal walls for irregular growths.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample is collected from the suspected area and tested under a microscope to confirm cancer.
- Imaging tests: MRI, CT scans, and PET scans help determine whether the cancer treatment has spread beyond the vaginal region.
A gynecologic oncologist specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of cancers affecting the female reproductive system. Early detection of these cancers significantly increases the likelihood of successful treatment, which may include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
How Venkateshwar Hospital Can Help
Venkateshwar Hospital offers specialised cancer care tailored to women’s health needs.
Key highlights include:
- Expertise in women’s cancer care: The hospital’s oncology department is led by experienced gynaecologic oncologists skilled in treating vaginal and other reproductive cancers.
- Multidisciplinary team: A coordinated approach involving oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists ensures personalised treatment for each patient.
- Advanced diagnostic facilities: Equipped with the latest technology for imaging, biopsy, and laboratory testing to ensure accurate diagnosis.
- Patient-centric care: Focused on compassionate treatment, emotional support, and recovery-oriented guidance for women at every stage of care.
Prognosis of Vaginal Cancer
The prognosis of vaginal cancer largely depends on the stage at diagnosis, the size and location of the tumour, and the patient’s overall health. Early-stage vaginal cancer, detected before it spreads to surrounding tissues or distant organs, has a significantly better outlook, with surgery often offering the best chance for long-term survival. However, because early symptoms can be subtle or absent, many cases are diagnosed at a more advanced stage, limiting treatment options.
With timely intervention and a multidisciplinary approach including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, patient outcomes can improve. Supportive care, regular monitoring, and attention to overall health also play a vital role in recovery and quality of life. At Venkateshwar Hospital, personalised treatment plans, expert care, and advanced technology aim to maximize the chances of positive outcomes, even in complex cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the first signs of vaginal cancer?
The earliest signs include unusual vaginal bleeding, watery discharge, and pelvic discomfort. These should be evaluated by a doctor, especially in post-menopausal women.
2. Can HPV infection lead to vaginal cancer?
Yes, high-risk HPV strains can cause changes in vaginal cells that increase the risk of cancer over time.
3. How is vaginal cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves pelvic examinations, Pap smears, colposcopy, biopsy, and imaging tests to confirm the presence and spread of cancer.
4. Who treats vaginal cancer?
Vaginal cancer is treated by gynaecologic oncologists who specialise in cancers of the female reproductive system.
5. Can vaginal cancer be prevented?
Although it cannot be completely prevented, regular screenings, HPV vaccination, and avoiding smoking can lower the risk.
6. How serious is vaginal cancer?
Vaginal cancer can be serious, but when diagnosed early, it is highly treatable. Prognosis depends on the stage and type of cancer.
7. Why choose Venkateshwar Hospital for vaginal cancer treatment?
Venkateshwar Hospital offers expert oncologists, state-of-the-art technology, and holistic support systems for comprehensive cancer management.
8. Is vaginal cancer common among younger women?
It is rare in younger women and more prevalent in those above 60, though cases linked to HPV can appear earlier.
9. What types of vaginal cancer exist?
The main types are squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, melanoma, and sarcoma, each originating in different vaginal cell types.
10. When should I visit a doctor for vaginal cancer symptoms?
Visit your doctor if you notice persistent bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain that does not resolve after routine care.
Medically Reviewed by— Dr. Siddharth Sahai (Director – Medical Oncology)
