Treatment for vaginal cancer

Follow up after vaginal cancer treatment

You usually have follow up appointments to check how you are. And to see whether you have any problems or worries. They also give you the chance to raise any concerns you have about your progress.

What happens?

Your doctor or nurse specialist does an internal examination at each appointment. They also ask how you are feeling, whether you have had any symptoms or side effects, and if anything is worrying you. You might also have tests at some visits.

Tests might include:

taking a sample of cells from your vagina
blood tests
x-rays
ultrasound scan
CT scan
MRI scan

How often you have check ups

Your first follow up appointment will be within 6 weeks of completing treatment. Your check ups will continue for some years after your treatment.

Follow up appointments range between every 3 months to once a year. The time in between appointments increases the longer it has been since your treatment. It can vary from hospital to hospital.

How you might feel

Some people find their check ups quite worrying. A hospital appointment can bring back any anxiety you had about your cancer.

It can help to tell someone close to you how you’re feeling. Sharing your worries can mean they don’t seem so overwhelming. Many people find it helpful to have counselling after cancer treatment.

For support and information, you can call the Cancer Research UK information nurses. They can give advice about who can help you and what kind of support is available. Freephone: 0808 800 4040 - Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

You can find out more on our resources and support page

Between appointments

Contact your healthcare team if you have any concerns between appointments. You should also contact them if you notice any new symptoms. You don’t have to wait until your next visit.

Last reviewed: 10 May 2024

Next review due: 10 May 2027

Treatment for vaginal cancer

Your treatment depends on a number of factors including the type and stage of cancer and where the cancer is in your vagina.

Living with vaginal cancer

There is support available to help you cope with a diagnosis of cancer, life during treatment and life after cancer.

Resources and organisations for vaginal cancer

There are organisations, support groups and helpful resources to help you cope with vaginal cancer and its treatment.

What is vaginal cancer?

Vaginal cancer is when abnormal cells in the vagina start to divide and grow in an uncontrolled way.

Vaginal cancer main page

Vaginal cancer is very rare. It starts in the vagina, which is the passage that leads from the neck of the womb (cervix) to the vulva. Vaginal cancer is more common in older women.