Vaginal (vaj-in-al) cancer is a disease more common among women between the ages of fifty and seventy years old. The signs and symptoms of vaginal cancer are highly similar to those of cervical cancer. Vaginal discharge often tinged with blood is the most frequent symptom. Irregular spotting and postmenopausal bleeding are common signs. Symptoms associated with the urinary tract, such as burning during urination, frequency, and urgency, are more common in vaginal cancer than with cervical cancer. This occurs because cancers of the lowermost vagina are close to the bladder base and its outlet. Unfortunately, the elasticity of the vagina allows cancers to become rather large before they are detected. Routine pelvic examinations are highly recommended, even if you are sexually inactive. For more information on vaginal cancer, contact your health care provider.
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