The gynecologic cancer specialists at Penn Medicine understand that an accurate and quick diagnosis of vaginal cancer is key to offering the best treatment options in a timely and efficient manner.
We have extensive experience in gynecologic surgery and also oversee all medical oncology treatments for vaginal cancer, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Our gynecologic cancer team is made up of specialists in surgery, radiology, pathology and radiation oncology who work together to develop customized treatment plans for each patient with vaginal cancer.
What is vaginal cancer?
Vaginal cancer is a disease in which malignant cells form in the vagina. The vagina, also called the birth canal, is the hollow tube that runs from the vulva (outside genitalia) up to the cervix (the lower part of the uterus, or womb).
Vaginal cancer is relatively uncommon, representing only about 2 percent of all gynecologic cancers.
Types of vaginal cancer
Most cancerous vaginal tumors occur when another cancer, such as cervical cancer or endometrial cancer, spreads. Called secondary vaginal cancer, it can be caused by either direct growth of the tumor into the vagina (from the rectum or bladder) or from a distant site (such as the breast) through the bloodstream or lymph nodes.
There are three types of vaginal cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma. This is the most common type of vaginal cancer. It forms in the thin, flat cells lining the inside of the vagina. Squamous cell vaginal cancer spreads slowly and usually stays near the vagina, but may spread to the lungs, liver or bone.
- Adenocarcinoma. This type of cancer begins in glandular cells that line the vagina and make and release fluids, such as mucus. Adenocarcinoma is more common after menopause and is more likely than squamous cell cancer to spread to the lungs and lymph nodes. A rare type of adenocarcinoma is linked to exposure to the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) while in the womb.
- Melanoma and sarcoma. Other rare types of vaginal cancer include melanoma, seen in the lower or outer portion of the vagina, and sarcoma. Melanoma and sarcoma account for only 2 percent to 3 percent of vaginal cancer cases, respectively.
Signs and symptoms of vaginal cancer
While vaginal cancer does not often show early signs, the most common symptom is painless vaginal bleeding that is not related to menstrual periods. If you experience vaginal bleeding after menopause, you should see a physician as soon as possible.
Other symptoms of vaginal cancer can include:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain in the pelvic area
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Blood in the stool, painful bowel movements or constipation
- Difficult or painful urination
- A lump in the vagina
Some of the symptoms above also may be related to conditions that are not cancerous or precancerous. It’s important to talk to your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
If you are diagnosed with vaginal cancer, they can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that’s right for you.
Why choose Penn for vaginal cancer care?
As a world leader in cancer care and research, Penn Medicine offers cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials with a foundation in patient-centered care. Our collaborative approach to vaginal cancer treatment brings together some of the most experienced specialists in the region. Throughout your treatment, we focus on both your physical and emotional well-being to provide the best outcomes possible.
Penn Medicine is a high-volume cancer center, meaning that we treat a large number of people with cancer. Studies show that treatment at a high-volume cancer center increases the odds of survival.
Our clinicians and researchers work as a team when treating vaginal cancer. If cancer spreads to other areas that may affect urinary and bowel function, top oncologists and surgeons in those areas are immediately available. Patients concerned about fertility or current pregnancy will receive care from Penn Fertility Care and maternal fetal medicine specialists.
Penn Medicine is leading the way in investigating cancers related to human papillomavirus (HPV) and developing innovative methods to diagnose, treat and prevent them. After treating an HPV-related cancer, we monitor patients for other HPV-related cancers, with a goal to prevent or detect recurrence.
Frequently asked questions about vaginal cancer
Most vaginal cancers are caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV). See the full list of vaginal cancer risk factors.
Some strains of HPV (known as “high-risk”) can cause vaginal and other cancers, including cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, anal cancer and throat cancer. People who are treated at Penn Medicine for one of these cancers will continue to be monitored for other HPV-related cancers. If you have high-risk HPV, smoking increases the risk of developing an HPV-related cancer.
The HPV vaccine protects against the high-risk strains of the virus that can cause cancer. The HPV vaccine is currently available for adults 45 years of age and younger.
If you are diagnosed with vaginal cancer, our fertility preservation program will evaluate your options for having a family in the future.
The average five-year relative survival rate for vaginal cancer is 67 percent for early stage cancers. The survival rates decrease for later-stage cancers.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.
Related specialties
Patient stories
A grateful patient pays it forward to treat uterine cancers
Dalia Jakas credits her doctor with curing her uterine cancer without harming her quality of life. Now, she’s paying it forward for future patients.