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Vaginal Cancer
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Women

Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer is a rare condition that can often be cured if detected early through pelvic exams and diagnostic screenings.

What is vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that starts in the vagina. The vagina is the canal leading from your cervix (the opening of your uterus) to the outside of your body.

Who is more likely to develop vaginal cancer?

You are more likely to develop vaginal cancer if:

  • You're age 60 or older.
  • You've had certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections.
  • You were exposed to a medicine called DES (diethylstilbestrol) before you were born. Between 1940-1971, DES was sometimes prescribed to prevent miscarriages. DES was later linked to different health problems, including vaginal cancer.
  • You have had abnormal cells in your vagina, cervix, or uterus.

What are the symptoms of vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer often doesn't have early symptoms. However, see your health care provider if you notice:

  • Vaginal bleeding that is not your period
  • A vaginal lump
  • Pelvic pain
  • Pain during sex
  • Pain while urinating (peeing)
  • Constipation or blood in your stool (poop) or urine (pee)

How is vaginal cancer diagnosed?

To find out if you have vaginal cancer, your provider will use tests that examine the vagina and other organs in your pelvis. These tests may include:

  • A pelvic exam. Your provider may also do a Pap test and/or an HPV test during your pelvic exam.
  • Colposcopy, a procedure to examine your cervix, vagina, and vulva.
  • Biopsy, a procedure to remove some cells so they can be checked for cancer.

What are the treatments for vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer can often be cured if it is found early. Treatments for vaginal cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy.

Can vaginal cancer be prevented?

Vaccines that protect against HPV infection may reduce your risk of vaginal cancer. The vaccines provide the most protection if you get them before you are exposed to HPV. So it's best to get vaccinated before you become sexually active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Persistent, unexplained vaginal bleeding (especially after menopause), a firm or irregular lump that does not resolve, pain during intercourse, or a sensation of pressure that lasts more than a few weeks should raise concern. Infections usually improve with antibiotics or antifungals and are often accompanied by discharge, itching, or odor. If symptoms linger despite treatment, ask for a colposcopic exam and biopsy.
positive high‑risk HPV test indicates infection with a virus that can cause cellular changes, but most infections clear spontaneously and only a small fraction progress to cancer. Regular screening (Pap and HPV co‑testing) allows early detection of precancerous changes, which can be treated before they become invasive. Maintaining a healthy immune system, avoiding smoking, and following up on abnormal results are the best ways to reduce the small risk.
Radiation can cause vaginal dryness, narrowing (stenosis), skin irritation, urinary frequency, and fatigue. Vaginal dilator therapy, regular use of water‑based lubricants, and pelvic floor exercises help prevent stenosis. Skin care with gentle cleansers and moisturizers reduces irritation. Urinary symptoms are managed with adequate hydration and, if needed, medications prescribed by the oncologist. Fatigue often improves with gradual activity and proper rest.
Women with DES exposure are advised to begin pelvic examinations, including a speculum exam and Pap test, at age 21 and continue annually. After age 30, a Pap test combined with HPV testing every 3 years is acceptable if prior results are normal. Some clinicians also recommend a targeted vaginal cytology (vaginal Pap) every 1‑2 years because DES‑related cancers can arise in the upper vagina.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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