When is radiotherapy recommended for vaginal cancer?

Scans and examination help show the tumour’s position in the vagina and whether it has reached nearby tissues or lymph nodes. Radiation may be delivered from outside the body, from a source placed close to the tumour, or through a combination of approaches. The choice depends on the area needing treatment and the aim of care.

Radiotherapy may follow surgery, be used as the main local treatment, or be combined with medicines. The team considers bowel, bladder, sexual and reproductive health, previous treatment, and how the cancer is affecting daily life.

Ask whether treatment is intended to treat the cancer, reduce symptoms, or both. Planning may include imaging, a physical examination, discussion of bladder and bowel symptoms, and support for emotional and sexual wellbeing. Tell the team about pregnancy possibility, previous pelvic radiation, medicines, and urinary or bowel problems.

During treatment, report skin irritation, vaginal soreness or discharge, diarrhoea, urinary burning, bleeding, or difficulty eating and drinking. The team can offer symptom relief and explain care for the treated skin and tissues.

Contact your oncology team promptly for heavy vaginal bleeding, fever, severe pelvic pain, inability to pass urine, or worsening diarrhoea. Seek emergency help for fainting, severe bleeding, confusion, or sudden breathing difficulty.

Where is my tumour and which tissues or lymph nodes need treatment? Would external radiation, internal radiation, or both be suitable? Will I need surgery or medicines too? How may treatment affect bladder, bowel, sexual and reproductive health? Who should I contact about bleeding or urinary symptoms?