![]() In many cases when surgery is performed, the uterus and the other internal reproductive organs must be removed to help with the complete removal of vaginal cancer. Sexual intercourse may still be possible after this type of surgery, but a lubrication aid may be needed. A gynecologic or reconstructive surgeon can repair the vagina or create a new vagina with grafts of tissue from other parts of the body. In some people, the operation is called a radical or modified radical vaginectomy because tissues next to the vagina also need to be surgically removed. This is the removal of part or all of the vagina, which may include the pelvic lymph nodes. Surgical options for vaginal cancer include: Surgery may be the only treatment needed for a very small vaginal cancer. A gynecologic oncologist is a doctor who specializes in treating vaginal cancer using surgery. The type of surgery used depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors. Surgery is the removal of the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue during an operation. There may also be charitable funds available to help with the costs of this care. It may be helpful to discuss what options for fertility preservation are covered by your health insurance. Premenopausal people who are still potentially able to get pregnant and want to preserve their fertility may be referred to a reproductive endocrinologist (REI). These topics should be discussed with the health care team before treatment begins. People with vaginal cancer may have concerns about if or how their treatment may affect their sexual health and fertility, or ability to become pregnant. Physical, emotional, and social effects of cancer Your care plan may also include treatment for symptoms and side effects, an important part of cancer care.Ĭoncerns about sexual health and having children Vaginal cancer is often treated with 1 treatment or a combination of treatments: surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. The common types of treatments used for vaginal cancer are described below. Learn more about making treatment decisions. Shared decision-making is particularly important for vaginal cancer because there are different treatment options. These types of talks are called “shared decision-making.” Shared decision-making is when you and your doctors work together to choose treatments that fit the goals of your care. Talk with your doctor about the goals of each treatment and what you can expect while receiving the treatment. Take time to learn about all of your treatment options and be sure to ask questions about things that are unclear. Treatment options and recommendations depend on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, possible side effects, and the patient’s preferences and overall health. ![]() Cancer care teams include a variety of other health care professionals, such as physician assistants, nurse practitioners, oncology nurses, social workers, pharmacists, counselors, dietitians, and others. In cancer care, different types of doctors often work together to create a patient’s overall treatment plan that combines different types of treatments. ![]() Learn more about clinical trials in the About Clinical Trials and Latest Research sections of this guide. A clinical trial is a research study that tests a new approach to treatment. Clinical trials may also be an option for you, which is something you can discuss with your doctor. ![]() “Standard of care” means the best treatments known. This section explains the types of treatments, also known as therapies, that are the standard of care for vaginal cancer. ON THIS PAGE: You will learn about the different types of treatments doctors use for people with vaginal cancer. ![]()
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