- Home
- About Us
- Doctors
- Specialties
- Bariatric Surgery
- Bone Marrow Transplant
- Cancer
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular And Thoracic Surgery
- Critical Care Medicine
- Dental Surgery
- Dermatology & Cosmetology
- Diabetic Foot Care
- Ear, Nose & Throat
- Endocrinology
- Fetal Medicines
- Gastroenterology
- General Medicine
- General Surgery
- HPB & Gastrointestinal Surgery
- Interventional Radiology
- IVF
- Kidney Transplant
- Laparoscopic Surgery
- Liver Transplant
- Medical And Hemato Oncology
- Neurology
- Neuro & Spine Surgery
- Nephrology And Dialysis
- Nuclear Medicine
- Orthopedic
- Ophthalmology
- Obstetrics And Gynecology
- Pathology Laboratory
- Pediatric
- Peripheral Vascular And Endovascular Surgery
- Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation
- Plastic Reconstruction
- Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Radiation Oncology
- Radiology
- Robotic Surgery
- Surgical Oncology
- Urology
- Facilities
- Patient Area
- Testimonials
- Media
- Contact Us
Vaginal cancer
Prevent, Empower, Thrive: Navigating Vaginal Cancer Together
Welcome to Universal Hospital’s Vaginal Cancer Care, where we are dedicated to providing expert and compassionate care for individuals affected by vaginal cancer. Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that forms in the tissues of the vagina.
Understanding Vaginal Cancer:
Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that forms in the cells of the vagina, the muscular tube that connects the uterus to the external genitals. Most vaginal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which originate in the thin, flat cells lining the surface of the vagina. Adenocarcinomas, which develop in the glandular cells, are less common.
Risk Factors:
- Age: The risk of vaginal cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in women over 60.
- HPV Infection: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially certain high-risk types, is a significant risk factor.
- Smoking: Tobacco use is associated with an increased risk of vaginal cancer.
- Previous Gynecological Cancers: A history of cervical or vulvar cancer may increase the risk.
- DES Exposure: Women exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) in utero are at a higher risk.
- Immunosuppression: Weakened immune system due to conditions such as HIV/AIDS or organ transplantation.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of vaginal cancer may include:
- Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Unusual bleeding, such as postmenopausal bleeding or bleeding between periods.
- Pelvic Pain: Pain or discomfort in the pelvic area.
- Painful Intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
- Vaginal Discharge: Unexplained changes in vaginal discharge.
Staging:
Vaginal cancer is staged based on the extent of its spread, ranging from Stage I (localized) to Stage IV (advanced and metastatic).
- Stage 0: Carcinoma in situ.
- Stage I: Cancer confined to the vaginal wall.
- Stage II: Invasion into nearby structures.
- Stage III: Extension to pelvic sidewall or lower vagina.
- Stage IVA: Spread to bladder or rectum.
- Stage IVB: Distant metastasis.
Diagnosis:
- Pelvic Examination: A physical examination to check for abnormalities in the vagina, cervix, and surrounding structures.
- Biopsy: Removal of a tissue sample for laboratory examination to confirm cancer.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to assess the extent of the cancer and detect any spread.
Treatment:
- Surgery: Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is the primary treatment for early-stage cancer.
- Radiation therapy: Targets and destroys cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment to kill cancer cells throughout the body.
Prevention:
Some preventive measures to reduce the risk of vaginal cancer include:
- HPV Vaccination: Getting vaccinated against HPV, especially in adolescence.
- Safe Sex Practices: Using barrier methods, such as condoms, to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
- Regular Check-ups: Routine gynecologic examinations for early detection.
Prognosis:
- Prognosis for vaginal cancer varies based on factors such as the type, stage at diagnosis, response to treatment, and overall health. Early-stage cases often have a better prognosis.
Screening:
- There is no routine screening for vaginal cancer in the general population. Diagnosis is often prompted by the presence of symptoms or during routine gynecologic examinations.
Why Choose Universal Hospital for Vaginal Cancer Care:
- Expert Gynecologic Oncology Team: Our Vaginal Cancer Care Center is staffed by a team of experienced gynecologic oncologists, surgeons, and supportive care professionals with specialized knowledge in the diagnosis and treatment of vaginal cancer.
- Cutting-Edge Treatments: Universal Hospital offers state-of-the-art treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and personalized care plans, ensuring patients have access to the latest advancements in vaginal cancer care.
- Holistic Patient Care: We prioritize individualized care plans that consider not only the medical aspects of vaginal cancer but also the emotional and practical needs of our patients, providing support and resources beyond the treatment room.
