The vagina is a tubular structure several centimetres in length. It commences
in the vulva between
the outlet from the bladder
(the urethra) and
the outlet from the bowel (the anus).
It continues up into the pelvis
stopping where it joins with the cervix
which is the lower-most part of the uterus
(womb).
What is Cancer of the Vagina?
Most cancers of the vagina are secondary or metastatic, that is, they have
arisen somewhere else, usually from the cervix
or vulva and spread
to the vagina.
Primary cancer of the Vagina is a very uncommon disease accounting for less
than 2% of all cases of cancer of the female genital tract. In Queensland there
are generally less than ten cases of vaginal cancer each year. Most cases occur
in women over the age of fifty years.
Most women with cancer of the vagina will have painless vaginal bleeding (not
related to normal periods) and a discharge which is often offensive in nature.
If the woman is sexually active, this bleeding may follow sexual intercourse
(post-coital). Although not all women experiencing these symptoms will have
cancer of the vagina, any woman with symptoms should see her family doctor
without delay.
Studying the Causes
The study of the occurrence and the causes of disease in the population is
called Epidemiology. An epidemiologist studies how common a specified disease
is, who is affected by it and what are the factors that are associated with
developing that disease, as well as studies aimed at controlling the disease.
Types of Cancer of the Vagina.
Cancers of the Vagina are usually of the squamous cell type.
Factors that Increase Risk
About one third or patients with vaginal cancer have a history of pre-cancer
or cancer of the cervix treated five or more years earlier.
Palliative care nursing
Modern health care is very successful in preventing or controlling sickness and disability. Many of us enjoy extra years of good health and function because of skilled medical treatment. But not all sickness can be cured or controlled. Sometimes it becomes evident that symptoms are getting worse, energy is failing and survival itself will be limited. It can be a very worrying time for both patients and their family and friends who are trying their best to help.
This is where Palliative Care and Palliative care nurses (and teams) can assist. You can contact a palliative care nurse through most hospitals and also in most nursing services in the community. The nurse may work as part of your treatment team or may be invited in to assist you with a range of symptom control, practical, social and spiritual issues you may have. This nurse will have a wide range of contacts within her team and with other health professionals, government and non government services who will be able to assist you and your family.
This phase of care where perhaps no active treatment is given and the future is unknown can be a lonely and anxious time. Palliative care nursing can provide the link between the hospital and the community that ensures you and your family are cared for throughout your illness, whatever happens.
Palliative Stage of Gynaecological Cancers
In palliative care the focus of care is on you as an individual (and your family) rather than your specific type of cancer. For instance, two people suffering with uterine cancer may not necessarily have the same physical, practical or social issues. A palliative care nurse (and his/her team) can help design your care needs around you and your situation.
Palliative Care Techniques
Most palliative care is provided at home by families. Palliative care nursing input can help your family quickly adjust to your changing needs. This includes anticipating changes, thus ensuring equipment and practical assistance is on hand, educating family members in basic nursing techniques and how to manage potential crises. Medication regimes can be complicated and your palliative care nurse can provide information and practical assistance in managing this. Most Palliative Care Services have a 24hr contact number that allow access to a nurse no matter what time of day or night it is.
Palliative care in the community receives government funding, therefore much of the care provided at home may be free of charge. The community also plays a role with most services using trained volunteer members of the community to provide assistance in your home to allow family members to shop, sleep or play!
The palliative stage of your illness is a time of great fear - fear of dying, or even fear of living with advanced cancer; fear of what lies beyond or fear that your family may not manage without you. These are real fears which the Palliative Care Nurse,
Counsellor or spiritual Carer can explore with you and your family. Most Palliative Care Services also provide bereavement support for family members.
Further Information
Palliative Care Queensland - ph 3832 3522;
website http://www.pallcare.org.au
Palliative Care Information Service (24 hours): 1800 772 273
