What You Need To Know About Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers

Vaginal and vulvar cancers are rare but important to understand. While they only make up about gynecologic cancers, recognizing the signs and knowing your risk factors can lead to early detection and more effective treatment. As your gynecologic oncologist, I’m here to guide you through the essentials of these conditions with compassion and clarity.

What Are Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers?

Vaginal cancer begins in the vaginal tissues, also known as the birth canal . Vulvar cancer, on the other hand, starts in the external part of the genital organs, called the vulva. These cancers develop when cells in these areas grow uncontrollably.

Comm on Symptoms To Watch For

Understanding your body’s normal patterns may help you detect when something may be off. Keep an eye out for these symptoms, and consult your healthcare provider if they persist:

For Vaginal Cancer:

• Unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding, particularly if you’re postmenopausal or experience bleeding between periods.
• Changes in bathroom habits, like blood in urine or stool, or an increase in urgency.

For Vulvar Cancer:

• Persistent itching, burning or tenderness.
• Skin changes on the vulva, such as discoloration, rashes or lumps.

If these symptoms last for more than two weeks, reach out to your doctor. While they don’t always indicate cancer, a professional evaluation is the only way to be certain.

Risk Factors for Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers

Certain factors may increase some people’s risk of developing these cancers:

• HPV infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to many cases of vaginal and vulvar cancers.
• History of cervical cancer: A past diagnosis of cervical cancer may increase your risk.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV can compromise your body’s ability to fight off infections.
• Smoking: Smoking is associated with a higher risk of these cancers.

Even if you have one or more of these risk factors, it doesn’t mean you’ll develop cancer. However, discussing them with your doctor can help determine the best screening plan for you.

Prevention

Preventing vaginal and vulvar cancers may start with proactive health choices. Getting the HPV vaccine offers protection against the virus strains most likely to cause these cancers and is recommended for people ages 9 to 26, so consider discussing it with your doctor. Additionally, reducing your number of sexual partners and avoiding smoking can help lower your risk. While these steps may not completely eliminate the risk, they can contribute to a lower likelihood of developing vaginal or vulvar cancer.

What To Do If Diagnosed

If you’re diagnosed with vaginal or vulvar cancer, consult with a gynecologic oncologist. These are doctors trained in these cancers who can help tailor a treatment plan that may suit your unique needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can vaginal or vulvar cancer be detected with a Pap test?

p test only screens for cervical cancer. Vaginal and vulvar cancers require specific exams if symptoms or risk factors are present.

Are there early signs I should watch for even if I feel healthy?

Yes, monitor for any unusual bleeding, itching or skin changes in the vaginal or vulvar areas, and consult your doctor if these symptoms arise.

How common are these cancers compared to other gynecologic cancers?

Vaginal and vulvar cancers are rare, accounting for just 6-7% of all gynecologic cancers.

Does HPV vaccination reduce the risk of both vaginal and vulvar cancers?

Yes, the HPV vaccine helps protect against the virus strains that often lead to these cancers, reducing your risk.

What lifestyle changes can lower my risk?

Avoiding smoking, getting the HPV vaccine and practicing safe sexual behaviors can help reduce your risk for these cancers.

Moving Forward With Hope

Cancer doesn’t define you; it’s just a part of your journey. With the right tools and support, you can move forward with strength and confidence. Remember, you’re not alone in this and there are people ready to help you every step of the way. If you have any concerns about your gynecologic health or have experienced symptoms, I encourage you to schedule a consultation.