Vaginal cancer is quite rare with only 250 people diagnosed a year in the UK. It is most common in those over the age of 60 but it can happen at any age.
This cancer starts in the vagina when cells change their growth pattern and structure, developing into a lesion or tumour.
Symptoms of Vaginal Cancer
- Pain in the pelvic area or rectum.
- A persistent lump or itch inside your vagina – not vulva
- Bleeding between periods
- Change in pooping habits
- Blood in pee or discharge
- Pain during sex or peeing
- Needing to pee a lot
- Vaginal bleeding post-menopause.
DON'T feel silly for going to the doctor, no matter how small it seems, it's YOUR body and you know it better than them!
Treatments for Vaginal Cancer
Once you and your doctor are aware of the stage of your cancer the following treatments may be possible:
Radiation Therapy
Also known as radiotherapy, radiation therapy is a common treatment for vaginal cancer. It uses x-rays to kill or damage cancer cells. It can also be used to control the symptoms of advanced cancer.
Surgery
Cancer can sometimes be removed with an operation, this helps reduce the chances of any cancer coming back.
Chemotherapy
This uses drugs to kill or slow down the cancer growth. It is usually given if the cancer is advanced or has come back. It can be combined with the above treatments. This can be given as tablets or by injection
