Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Medically Reviewed on 10/8/2021
Doctor's Notes on Vaginal Cancer
Vaginal cancer occurs when the cells of the surface of vagina start to grow abnormally. There are two main types of vaginal cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma forms in the thin, flat cells lining the vagina. Squamous cell vaginal cancer spreads slowly and usually stays near the vagina, but may spread to the lungs, liver, or bone. This is the most common type of vaginal cancer.
- Adenocarcinoma begins in glandular cell in the lining of the vagina make and release fluids such as mucus. Adenocarcinoma is more likely than squamous cell cancer to spread to the lungs and lymph nodes.
Vaginal cancer often does not cause early signs or symptoms. When they do occur, symptoms of vaginal cancer include:
- bleeding or discharge not related to menstrual periods,
- pain during sexual intercourse,
- pelvic pain,
- a lump in the vagina,
- pain when urinating, and
- constipation.
What Is the Treatment for Vaginal Cancer?
Treatment for vaginal cancer depends on the stage of the tumor, or the extent to which it has spread in the body at the time of diagnosis.
- Most vaginal cancers are treated with surgery and radiation therapy.
- In some cases, chemotherapy may be given along with radiation therapy
- Clinical trials to study new treatments or combinations of treatments are another option for the treatment of vaginal cancer
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Genital Warts (HPV Infection)
Genital warts (HPV) are growths in the genital area of both men and women. Genital warts are contagious and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Symptoms of genital warts may be none, to painless bumps, itching, and/or a discharge. There is no single effective cure for genital warts. Treatments and medication may decrease the size of the warts or temporarily remove them. -
Types of Vaginal Cancer Medications
Preventive vaccines against human papilloma virus (HPV) is a central pillar of preventing vaginal cancer. Treatments include surgery using various techniques, topical chemotherapy treatments and systemic chemotherapy if the cancer spreads. -
Vaginal Bleeding (Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding Between Periods)
In women, abnormal vaginal bleeding when is when they are not on their period (menstruation). Symptoms of abnormal vaginal bleeding outside of your period include red blood on the underwear or pajamas, pelvic or abdominal pain, and excessive pain from menstruating, or if you are pregnant. Causes of abnormal vaginal bleeding include unbalanced hormones, during pregnancy, after trauma, uterine fibroids, menopause, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Treatment for abnormal bleeding depends on the cause of the bleeding. Talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional if you have any abnormal vaginal bleeding. -
Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge is a fluid or semisolid substance that is normal and helps keep the vagina clean. Normal vaginal discharge is clear or milky white and does not have an unpleasant odor. Bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including trichomonas, gonorrhea, or Chlamydia can cause a change in color or odor. Symptoms of infection may include yellow-green or gray discharge, strong odor, or irritation of the genitals. Treatment depends on the infection.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.