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Vaginal cancer is a rare disease where cancer cells form in the tissues of the vagina, the canal that connects the cervix (the opening of the uterus) to the outside of the body. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the thin, flat cells lining the vagina. Another type, adenocarcinoma, begins in glandular cells that produce mucus or other fluids. Vaginal cancer can also be caused by other rare types, but these are less common.
Although vaginal cancer is uncommon, it is important because it can often be cured if found early. Many cases are linked to infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can cause changes in vaginal cells. Vaccines that protect against HPV may reduce the risk of developing vaginal cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes, so awareness of symptoms and risk factors is key.
Vaginal cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they can include abnormal vaginal bleeding (such as bleeding between periods, after sex, or after menopause), a lump in the vagina, pelvic pain, pain during sex, pain while urinating, constipation, or blood in stool or urine. Because some women have no symptoms, regular pelvic exams and tests like Pap smears and HPV tests can help detect changes early.
To diagnose vaginal cancer, healthcare providers perform a pelvic exam and may use colposcopy, a procedure that uses a special microscope to look closely at the vagina and cervix. A biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken for testing, confirms the diagnosis. Imaging tests like MRI may be used to see how far the cancer has spread.
Treatment depends on the stage and type of vaginal cancer but often includes surgery to remove cancerous tissue, radiation therapy to kill cancer cells, and chemotherapy to target cancer throughout the body. Early-stage vaginal cancer has a better chance of being cured. Your care team will discuss the best treatment plan based on your individual situation.
Infection with high-risk types of HPV causes about two-thirds of vaginal cancer cases. Vaccines against HPV are most effective when given before exposure to the virus, typically before becoming sexually active. Other risk factors include exposure before birth to a drug called diethylstilbestrol (DES), which was used from the 1940s to early 1970s to prevent pregnancy problems. Women exposed to DES in the womb have a higher risk of a rare vaginal cancer called clear cell adenocarcinoma and may need more frequent cancer screenings.
If vaginal cancer is mentioned in your medical records or discussions, it is important to ask your healthcare provider what it means for your specific case. The term alone does not describe your exact diagnosis or treatment plan. Your provider can explain how tests, symptoms, and risk factors apply to you and what steps to take next.
If you notice symptoms like unusual vaginal bleeding, pain, or a lump, see your healthcare provider promptly. Early evaluation can lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. Vaccination against HPV and regular pelvic exams are important preventive measures. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always discuss your concerns and questions with your care team to understand what is best for your health.
Public source information used for this glossary entry includes: