Vaginal Cancer Care in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Vaginal cancer is one of the rarest gynecological cancers, accounting for around two percent of cases. Women over age 50 are most commonly affected. In Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, early detection and access to specialized cancer care at centers like Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health–University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health can make a significant difference in outcomes.

The vagina is part of the female reproductive system. It is a muscular canal about 7.5 cm long that extends from the neck of the uterus (the cervix) to the external genitals (the vulva).

Most vaginal cancers are secondary cancers, meaning cancer cells have spread (metastasized) to the vagina from another primary site such as the cervix, vulva, or uterus.

Types of Vaginal Cancer

About 95% of cancers that start in the vagina are squamous cell carcinomas, which develop from the thin, flat cells lining the vagina (similar to skin cells).

Less commonly, vaginal cancer can be:

  • Adenocarcinoma – cancer that starts in glandular cells
  • Clear-cell adenocarcinoma – a rare type strongly associated with prenatal exposure to the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol)
  • Melanoma – cancer of pigment-producing cells
  • Sarcoma – cancer of connective tissue, such as muscle or fat

DES Exposure and Vaginal Cancer

Another group of women at higher risk for vaginal cancer are those exposed to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth (in utero). DES was prescribed to pregnant women between 1938 and 1971 in the mistaken belief that it helped prevent miscarriage. It is no longer used for this purpose.

We now know that DES exposure can cause health problems for both:

  • The women who took DES during pregnancy
  • Their children (often called DES daughters and DES sons)

In DES daughters, the reproductive system can be altered. These changes may include:

  • Abnormal shape of the uterus and cervix
  • Vaginal adenosis – glandular cells (normally found inside the cervix) appearing on the vaginal walls

Vaginal adenosis is a risk factor for clear-cell adenocarcinoma, the rare vaginal cancer associated with DES exposure. Unlike other cases of vaginal cancer, DES-related vaginal cancers are typically diagnosed at a younger age, often between 14 and 33 years.

If you know or suspect you are a DES daughter living in the Grand Rapids area, talk with your gynecologist or primary care provider about regular pelvic exams and appropriate cancer screening.

Symptoms of Vaginal Cancer

Some vaginal cancers cause no symptoms in the early stages and may only be suspected after an abnormal Pap test or HPV test performed during routine cervical cancer screening.

As the disease progresses, symptoms may include:

  • Painless vaginal bleeding that is not related to your period
  • Vaginal bleeding after sexual intercourse
  • Abnormal or smelly vaginal discharge
  • Constant pelvic pain or pressure
  • Pain when urinating
  • Pain or difficulty when passing bowel movements
  • A lump or mass in the vagina (sometimes noticed during intercourse or a pelvic exam)

Because Michigan women often delay care during long, cold winters or busy summer months, it’s important not to ignore these symptoms. If you notice any of the above signs, schedule an appointment with your provider in Grand Rapids as soon as possible.

Risk Factors for Vaginal Cancer

Known risk factors for vaginal cancer include:

  • Advancing age – most women with vaginal cancer are over 50
  • History of gynecologic cancer – such as cervical or vulvar cancer
  • Previous treatment for dysplasia – abnormal cells on the cervix, vagina, or vulva
  • Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection – especially high-risk strains; genital warts indicate HPV infection
  • Cigarette smoking – smoking is common in some parts of Michigan and increases the risk of many cancers, including vaginal cancer
  • DES exposure before birth – DES-related vaginal adenosis and clear-cell adenocarcinoma
  • Vaginal adenosis not related to DES
  • Chronic irritation of the vagina – some research suggests long-term use of a pessary (a device used to treat uterine prolapse) may irritate the vagina and contribute to cellular changes

Not everyone with these risk factors will develop vaginal cancer, and some women with vaginal cancer have no identifiable risk factors.

How Vaginal Cancer Spreads

As vaginal cancer grows, it typically spreads first to nearby tissues and organs, including:

  • Bladder
  • Urethra
  • Rectum
  • Nearby pelvic tissues

In more advanced stages, it can spread through the lymphatic system or bloodstream to distant organs such as:

  • Lungs
  • Liver
  • Distant lymph nodes

Early diagnosis in Grand Rapids cancer centers allows for more treatment options and better chances of cure.

Diagnosis of Vaginal Cancer in Grand Rapids

If your provider suspects vaginal cancer, you may be referred to a gynecologic oncologist at a local hospital such as:

  • Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital or Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health–University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health facilities in West Michigan

Diagnostic steps may include:

  • Medical history and symptom review
  • Physical and pelvic examination
  • Colposcopy – viewing the cervix and vagina under magnification with a colposcope
  • Biopsy – removing a small sample of suspicious tissue from the vagina to examine under a microscope
    • This may be done in the office or under anesthesia in an operating room
  • Imaging tests (as needed) – such as MRI, CT scan, or PET scan to assess the size and spread (stage) of the cancer

Staging helps your care team in Grand Rapids determine the best treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Vaginal Cancer

Treatment depends on several factors, including:

  • Your overall health and other medical conditions
  • The type of vaginal cancer
  • The size and location of the tumor
  • The stage of the cancer (how far it has spread)
  • Whether the cancer is new or has come back (recurred)

You will typically be cared for by a multidisciplinary team that may include gynecologic oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, nurses, social workers, and palliative care specialists.

Surgery

Surgery may be recommended if the cancer is small and localized. Surgical options can include:

  • Local excision – removing the tumor and a small margin of surrounding healthy tissue
  • Partial or total vaginectomy – removal of part or all of the vagina
  • Reconstruction of the vagina – if the vagina and surrounding tissues need to be removed, surgeons can create an artificial vagina using tissue from another part of the body, such as the thigh or abdomen. This can allow for continued sexual intercourse.
  • Radical hysterectomy – removal of the uterus, cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, nearby lymph nodes, and the upper portion of the vagina, particularly if the cancer involves the cervix or uterus.
  • Pelvic exenteration – in very advanced cases where cancer has spread to other pelvic organs such as the bladder or rectum, more extensive surgery may be needed to remove affected organs.

These surgeries are typically performed at major hospitals with gynecologic oncology services, such as Corewell Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be used:

  • As the main treatment
  • Before surgery to shrink a tumor
  • After surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence

Types of radiation used for vaginal cancer include:

  • External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) – radiation is delivered from a machine outside the body, usually over several weeks.
  • Internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy) – radioactive material is placed directly into or near the tumor inside the vagina. This may be used alone or in combination with EBRT.

Radiation oncology services are available at several cancer centers in Grand Rapids and the broader West Michigan region.

Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy

In some cases, chemotherapy or targeted therapies may be recommended, often in combination with radiation therapy for more advanced disease. Your oncologist will discuss whether these treatments are appropriate for your specific situation.

When a Cure May Not Be Possible

If vaginal cancer is diagnosed at a very advanced stage, or if it has spread extensively despite treatment, a cure may no longer be possible. In these situations, care focuses on:

  • Relieving symptoms (such as pain, bleeding, or discharge)
  • Maintaining comfort and dignity
  • Supporting emotional, spiritual, and social needs
  • Helping you and your family navigate complex decisions

This is called palliative care. Palliative care is available through many Grand Rapids health systems and can be provided alongside cancer treatments or as the main focus of care.

Living With Vaginal Cancer in Grand Rapids

Dealing with vaginal cancer can be physically and emotionally challenging. Local factors—such as long Michigan winters, icy roads, and transportation issues—may make it harder to get to appointments or support groups. Planning ahead for winter travel, arranging rides, and using telehealth when available can help you stay connected to your care team.

Support may include:

  • Counseling and mental health support
  • Pelvic floor physical therapy
  • Sexual health counseling and relationship support
  • Nutritional guidance, especially important during treatment
  • Social work services for help with insurance, work, and home care

Local Resources and Support in Grand Rapids, MI

If you are concerned about vaginal cancer or have been diagnosed, consider the following local resources:

  • Your GP or primary care provider – first point of contact for symptoms, referrals, and ongoing care
  • Gynecologic oncologists at:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) Lemmen-Holton Cancer Pavilion
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health–University of Michigan Health
    • Mercy Health West Michigan
  • Kent County Health Department / Grand Rapids Public Health – information on women’s health services, HPV vaccination, and smoking cessation
  • Michigan Cancer resources – including state and regional cancer support organizations
  • Local and online support groups – many West Michigan cancer centers host or can refer you to groups for women with gynecologic cancers

For HPV vaccination, Pap testing, and sexual health services, women in Grand Rapids can also access local women’s health clinics, community health centers, and university-affiliated clinics.

Key Points About Vaginal Cancer in Grand Rapids

  • Vaginal cancer is rare, and most cases occur in women over 50.
  • Many early vaginal cancers cause no symptoms and may be found after an abnormal cervical screening test.
  • Symptoms can include abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge, constant pelvic pain, and pain with urination or bowel movements.
  • Risk factors include age, HPV infection, smoking, prior gynecologic cancer or dysplasia, DES exposure, and vaginal adenosis.
  • Treatment options in Grand Rapids include surgery, radiation therapy (external and internal), and sometimes chemotherapy.
  • When cure is not possible, palliative care focuses on improving quality of life and relieving symptoms.
  • Comprehensive care is available through major Grand Rapids health systems and supported by local public health resources and cancer support services.

If you live in the Grand Rapids area and notice any concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly for evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for successful outcomes.