Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the vagina. It most commonly affects women over 60. Vaginal cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages, as it may not cause noticeable symptoms or changes in the appearance of the vagina.
However, if left untreated, vaginal cancer can spread to nearby tissues and organs and can be life-threatening. Fortunately, with early detection and treatment, the outlook for vaginal cancer can be positive, and many women can fully recover.
The survival rate for vaginal cancer varies depending on several factors, including:
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Stage of cancer at diagnosis
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Patient's age and overall health
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Type of treatment received
What Does Vaginal Cancer Look Like?
Vaginal cancer may appear as a lump or mass in the vagina and can also cause changes to the tissue in the vaginal wall. However, it's important to note that vaginal cancer may not have any noticeable symptoms or visible changes in many cases, especially in the early stages.
If you have concerns about your vaginal health or if you are experiencing any symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding or pain during sexual intercourse, it's essential to talk to your healthcare provider. They can perform a physical examination and order any necessary tests, such as a biopsy or imaging tests, to check for the presence of vaginal cancer or other conditions.
Symptoms of Vaginal Cancer
As for how to check for cancer in the vaginal or vulvar area, it is recommended that women perform regular self-exams of their genital area to look for any changes or abnormalities. It is also important to schedule regular gynecological exams with a healthcare provider to screen for cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer and other reproductive health issues. Your healthcare provider can provide more information about how to perform self-exams and when to schedule screenings.
Vaginal cancer can often be difficult to detect in its early stages, as it may not cause noticeable symptoms or changes in the appearance of the vagina.
Early-stage vaginal cancer often does not cause symptoms. Women often find out they have vaginal cancer after an abnormal cervical screening test result.
The symptoms of vaginal cancer include:
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Blood-stained vaginal discharge (not menstrual bleeding)
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Bleeding after sexual intercourse
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Pain in the pelvic area
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A lump in the vagina
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Problems with passing urine, such as blood in the urine, the need to pass urine frequently, and the need to pass urine during the night
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Pain in the rectum (back passage).
It's important to note that other conditions can also cause these symptoms, so it's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you are experiencing any of them. Your healthcare provider can perform a physical exam, order tests such as a biopsy or imaging tests, and determine the cause of your symptoms.
Early cancer detection can significantly improve treatment plans and outcomes, so it's important to seek medical attention promptly if you have concerns about your health.
Stages of Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer is typically staged based on the extent of cancer and how far it has spread. The stages of vaginal cancer are as follows:
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Stage 0: This is also known as carcinoma in situ or pre-cancer of the vagina. The cancer cells are only found on the surface of the vaginal lining and have not spread deeper into the tissue.
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Stage 1 vaginal cancer: The cancer is confined to the vagina and has not spread to nearby tissues or organs.
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Stage 2 vaginal cancer: Cancer has spread to the tissues around the vagina but not to the pelvic wall.
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Stage 3 vaginal cancer: Cancer has spread to the pelvic wall or the lower third of the vagina
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Stage 4 vaginal cancer: Stage 4 vaginal cancer has spread beyond the vaginal walls to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs such as the lungs, liver, or bones. Unfortunately, the cancer is considered advanced at this stage, and the prognosis is generally poor. However, treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, which can help relieve symptoms, slow cancer progression, and improve quality of life.
What are the Warning Signs of Vulvar Cancer?
The warning signs of vulvar cancer may include itching, burning, or tenderness in the vulva, changes in the color or texture of the skin of the vulva, a lump or bump in the vulva, and bleeding or discharge from the vulva. If you notice any of these symptoms, speaking with your healthcare provider is important.
Other possible symptoms may include pain or discomfort during sex. Cancer spreading to nearby tissues or organs may cause other symptoms such as pelvic pain, back pain, or difficulty urinating.
How do you Check for Cancer Down There?
The best way to check for cancer in the genital area is to have regular gynecological exams and Pap tests. During a gynecological exam, your healthcare provider will examine your external genital area and may use a speculum to examine your vagina and cervix. They may also perform a pelvic exam to assess any abnormalities in their uterus or ovaries.
If you notice any symptoms or changes in your genital area, such as lumps, bumps, or abnormal discharge or bleeding, it's essential to speak with a medical professional. Depending on your age and medical history, your healthcare provider may also recommend additional tests, such as an HPV test or biopsy.
To Conclude
Vaginal cancer is a rare and often difficult-to-detect cancer that affects the tissues of the vagina. However, with early detection and prompt treatment, many women are able to make a full recovery.
Regular gynecological exams and Pap smears can also help with early detection. While vaginal cancer can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, early detection and treatment can greatly improve outcomes and increase the chances of a positive outcome.
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