Vaginal cancer is a rare gynecological cancer which originates in the vagina. Around one percent of gynecological cancers are vaginal cancers, making this cancer extremely unusual, and when this cancer is caught early, the prognosis can be very good for the patient. Regular gynecological exams can detect vaginal cancer and the signs of other gynecological cancers and reproductive health problems, which is why these exams are critical for all women.

There are several types of cancer which can be found in the vagina. The most common is squamous cell carcinoma, a slow-growing cancer which rarely metastasizes, although it can if it is ignored for too long. Adenocarcinoma, a cancer which originates in glandular tissue, can also be seen in the vagina, as can malignant melanoma and sarcoma. The cancer can sometimes be identified during a visual examination, or through a biopsy and laboratory examination of suspicious tissue.

Generally, this cancer is seen in women over the age of 60, although it can sometimes appear in younger women. Women exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in the womb are more likely to develop vaginal cancer, as are women with the human papilloma virus (HPV). Symptoms include pelvic pain or bleeding as the cancer starts to grow, and vaginal cancer can also result in the development of a lump which can be palpated. Women who experience these symptoms should make an appointment with a gynecologist for an exam.

Treatment options include surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, along with chemotherapy and radiation to prevent the spread of the cancer. During the surgery, a lymph node biopsy may be taken to see whether or not the cancerous cells have had an opportunity to spread. This can determine the course of treatment, as a cancer which has metastasized needs to be treated much more aggressively.

Cancer of the vagina can be a frightening diagnosis. Although most patients are over reproductive age, and therefore not concerned about potential fertility issues, vaginal cancer can lead to a serious decline in quality of life as the patient goes through treatment. Cancer in general can also be frightening, even if it is caught early and it is a relatively low-risk cancer. Women with vaginal cancer will probably interact with surgeons, oncologists, and gynecologists in the course of their treatment, and they may also want to consider seeing a psychologist or other mental health professional to talk about the emotions they may experience as the cancer is diagnosed and treated.