The best way to protect you is to get yourself vaccinated to prevent HPV-related infection. You can do some lifestyle changes to help reduce your risk:

• Don’t have sex with more than one partner or with someone who has more than one partner.
• Use condoms during sex.
• Get regular Pap test and pelvic exams.
• Stop smoking and if you don’t, then don’t start.

There is no clear cause of vaginal cancer but most are linked with HPV (Human Papillomvirus) infection. This is very common sexually-transmitted disease. Also, you are more likely to get vaginal cancer if you’re:

• 60 years or older
• Smoke or drink alcohol
• Have HIV
• Have cervical cancer or precancerous lesions
• Have vaginal intraepithelial neoplasia

At Sakhi oncology, we will create the most suitable treatment plan based on:

• The type and stage of the cancer
• Where the cancer is in the vagina
• The chance that a type of treatment will cure the cancer or help in some way
• Your age
• Any other health problems that you have
• Your views about the treatment and the associated side effects

The side effects of vaginal cancer treatment vary with the intensity of treatment modality used to cure the stage of cancer. In women, who present in the late stage, there might be necessity to remove all the reproductive organs, which can affect a woman physically and emotionally. Dr. Monika will consult you regarding the best possible solution after evaluating all the options. Women undergoing radiation treatment may experience skin changes, fatigue, loose stools, vaginal scarring, pain and dryness. Chemo can make you feel nauseous and cause hair fall.
Most side effects wane off after treatment ends, very few last longer.