Vaginal cancer

Vaginal cancer can be caused by a persistent infection with certain types of HPV in the area of the vaginal vestibule. This disease occurs much less frequently than cervical cancer.

Risk factors include HPV infection, early first sexual intercourse, multiple sexual partners, smoking and HIV infection. Previous treatments for HPV-related lesions also increase the risk.

In the UK, around 250 women are diagnosed with vaginal cancer every year. More than a third of those affected are aged 75 years and older at the time of diagnosis. In younger women, the cause is often a persistent HPV infection. It is estimated that around 75% of vaginal cancers are HPV-related.

The first signs may be bloody discharge or vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse. If the tumour has spread, abdominal pain or disorders of the bladder and bowel may also occur.

Vaginal cancer is often discovered as an incidental finding during a gynaecological check-up. Earlier precancerous stages of the cervix can indicate an increased risk of vaginal cancer. Vaginal endoscopy and cell smears are diagnostic procedures.

Untreated vaginal cancer can grow into surrounding tissue such as the cervix, the external genital organs and the urinary bladder. At an advanced stage, the tumour can block the ureter, which can lead to kidney damage.

Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the tumour, radiotherapy and, in the case of advanced cancer, chemotherapy. After treatment, regular follow-up checks are necessary to recognise relapses at an early stage.

Possible consequences of treatment are functional disorders in the pelvic area, such as incontinence or pain. Physiotherapy can help to alleviate these symptoms.

After surgery, radiotherapy to the pelvic area or chemotherapy, the chances of pregnancy may be impaired. If you wish to have children, possible measures should be discussed before treatment.

As a large proportion of vaginal cancers are caused by HPV infections, the HPV vaccination is an important preventative measure. The NHS recommends the vaccination for girls and boys aged 12-13 years, whereby missed vaccinations should be caught up on by the age of 25.