Symptoms of Vaginal Cancer

Signs and Symptoms of Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that forms in the vaginal tissue of women. In the early stages, vaginal cancer does not usually cause any noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, vaginal cancer symptoms begin to appear. These symptoms are not exclusive to vaginal cancer; in fact, they are also symptoms of other, less serious conditions.

Vaginal Cancer Symptoms

Vaginal cancer is a gynecologic cancer that affects about 2000 women in the United States each year. Its rarity and the vagueness of its symptoms can make it difficult to diagnose. Diagnosis delays are not uncommon in some women with vaginal cancer. A small number of women do not experience any symptoms prior to diagnosis; a routine Pap smear leads to the detection.

Vaginal cancer symptoms include:

Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: In reference to vaginal cancer, abnormal vaginal bleeding presents itself after sexual intercourse and/or in women who have completed menopause. It is the most common symptom of vaginal cancer and is often one of the first symptoms experienced. Postmenopausal and post-coital bleeding are vague symptoms that are also commonly present in many other gynecologic diseases and conditions.

Vaginal Discharge: Although vaginal discharge is common in many women and often not a concern, abnormal or unusual vaginal discharge -- with or without a blood-tinge or odor -- can be symptoms of vaginal cancer. This is incredibly rare, and much more likely to be due to something much less worrisome, but it should be evaluated by your doctor.

Changes in Urination: If you find that you may be urinating more frequently, it is important to determine the cause of it. This may be related to an increase in fluid intake, the consumption of caffeinated beverages, or presence of a urinary tract infection, but this can also be caused by more serious conditions. Changes in urination can also include pain during urination and blood in the urine. Though the presence of blood may not always be able to be detected by the naked eye, some women may notice pink tinges/streaks in their panties or when wiping with toilet tissue.

Pelvic Pain: Pelvic pain generally occurs when vaginal cancer has begun to spread. Pelvic pain can be described as pain or pressure felt anywhere in the abdomen below the navel. It may be intermittent or constant. Many women describe pelvic pain as a dull ache that may include sharp pains.

Vaginal Mass: A vaginal mass that can be felt either by you or your physician can be a symptom of vaginal cancer. There can be several causes of vaginal masses, including vaginal cysts. A biopsy may be necessary to determine if the mass is cancerous or not.

Changes in Bowel Movements: Changes in bowel function can indicate many conditions, including vaginal cancer. As vaginal cancer progresses, women may experience chronic constipation, black/tarry stools, and a feeling as if the bowels have not been completely emptied after having a bowel movement.

_Sources:

_{American Cancer Society. Detailed Guide: Vaginal Cancer. 12 July 2006. Accessed 15 July 2008.}

_{National Cancer Institute. Vaginal Cancer (PDQ): Treatment; 23 May 2008. Accessed 15 July 2008.}