Vaginal cancer is a rare but serious type of cancer that starts in the cells lining the vagina. The vagina is a vital part of the reproductive system, connecting the uterus to the vulva. Because of its importance, it is important to know the early signs of vaginal cancer, which can be tricky to spot. Here are six early warning signs you should never ignore to catch potential issues early and protect your health.
1. Unusual Vaginal Bleeding
One of the earliest and most common signs of vaginal cancer is unusual vaginal bleeding. This can include bleeding between periods, after sex, or post-menopause. If you notice any unusual bleeding, it is important to consult your healthcare provider, as it could be an early sign of vaginal cancer or another serious condition.
2. Strange Vaginal Discharge
Another warning sign is unusual vaginal discharge. While discharge can vary throughout your menstrual cycle, a significant change in color, consistency, or smell – particularly if it is watery or foul-smelling – should be checked out by a healthcare professional. This could indicate an infection or something more serious like vaginal cancer.
3. Pain During Sex
Experiencing pain during sex, also known as dyspareunia, can be a symptom of vaginal cancer. If you find that sex has become painful without an obvious reason, it is crucial to talk to your doctor. This symptom could be due to a variety of health issues, and pinpointing the exact cause is essential for appropriate treatment.
4. A Lump in the Vagina
Feeling a lump or mass in your vagina can be alarming. Vaginal cancer often manifests as a noticeable lump or mass in the vaginal area. If you detect any unusual bumps or growths during self-examination or experience discomfort in the area, make an appointment with your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
5. Peeing More Often
Needing to urinate more frequently than usual can also be an early sign of vaginal cancer. This symptom can often be mistaken for a urinary tract infection or other less serious conditions. However, if you notice a persistent change in your urination habits, it is worth getting it checked out to rule out cancer.
6. Pain When Peeing
Pain or a burning sensation when urinating can be another symptom. While this can often be a sign of a urinary tract infection, it could also indicate the presence of vaginal cancer, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like unusual discharge or bleeding.
Understanding the Symptoms
Vaginal cancer often begins as a precancerous condition known as vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia (VAIN). At this stage, abnormal cells are present on the surface layer of the vagina, but there are no physical symptoms. VAIN can take years to develop into full-blown cancer, highlighting the importance of regular check-ups and screenings.
Age and Risk Factors
Vaginal cancer is more common in women over 60, with about half of those diagnosed being over 70. The most common type of vaginal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, accounting for about 90% of cases. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a known risk factor, making regular Pap tests and HPV screenings vital for early detection.
If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, make sure to visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Regular wellness visits and screenings are important, especially since severe symptoms often do not appear until the later stages of the disease.
HPV and Screening
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends regular screenings for those with vaginas. People aged 21 to 29 should have a Pap test and HPV screening every three years. For those aged 30 to 65, an HPV test every five years and a Pap test every three years are recommended. These things can help catch any abnormalities early before they develop into cancer.
Vaginal cancer is rare but serious, and catching it early is very important. By watching for signs like unusual bleeding, odd discharge, pain during sex, lumps in the vagina, needing to pee more often, and pain when peeing, you can spot problems early. Regular check-ups and screenings are key to keeping your reproductive health in check. If you notice any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away. Taking action early can make a big difference for sure.
