Vaginal Cancer Treatment

Vaginal cancer treatment options vary based on the stage, type, and overall health of the patient. Learn more about the latest therapies, including surgery, radiation, and targeted treatments, to help guide your care journey.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, like X-rays or protons, to destroy cancer cells. There are two types:

• External radiation: A machine targets radiation at the cancer from outside the body.
• Internal radiation (brachytherapy): Small radioactive implants are placed near the cancer and later removed.

Radiation is often combined with low-dose chemotherapy to make it more effective. It may also be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Surgery

Surgical options depend on the cancer’s size and location:

• Vaginectomy: Removes part or all of the vagina if the cancer is small and contained.
• Pelvic exenteration: Removes multiple pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum, if cancer returns or spreads.

If the vagina is removed, reconstructive surgery can create a new one using skin or muscle from other parts of the body. This allows for sexual activity, but sensations and natural lubrication may be different.

Other Treatments

• Chemotherapy: Uses strong drugs to kill cancer cells, especially if the cancer has spread or returned.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to find and destroy cancer cells, often used for advanced cases.
• Clinical Trials: Research studies that test new treatments, offering access to the latest options but without guaranteed results.

Each treatment plan is personalized based on the cancer’s stage and how well it responds to therapy.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vaginal-cancer/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352453#:~:text=Most%20vaginal%20cancers%20are%20treated,makes%20the%20radiation%20more%20effective.