If you have any of the symptoms of vaginal cancer, your first step will be to visit your GP, who will conduct initial tests. If you need further tests, the GP will refer you to a specialist such as a gynaecologist or gynaecological oncologist.
If the tests show that you have vaginal cancer, the specialist will work out how far it has spread. This is known as staging.
After a vaginal cancer diagnosis, you are likely to see a range of health professionals, who will all play a part in your treatment.
Many people feel shocked and upset when told they have vaginal cancer. If you need support, call Cancer Council 13 11 20.
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A/Prof Alison Brand, Director, Gynaecological Oncology, Westmead Hospital, NSW; Ellen Barlow, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Royal Hospital for Women, NSW; Jane Conroy-Wright, Consumer; Rebecca James, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA; Suparna Karpe, Clinical Psychologist, Gynaecological Oncology, Westmead Hospital, NSW; Dr Pearly Khaw, Consultant Radiation Oncologist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC; Sally McCoull, Consumer; A/Prof Orla McNally, Gynaecological Oncologist and Director, Oncology/Dysplasia, The Royal Women’s Hospital, and Director, Gynaecology Tumour Stream,Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, VIC; Haley McNamara, Social Worker and Project Manager, Care at End of Life Project, Queensland Health, QLD; Tamara Wraith, Senior Clinician – Physiotherapy, The Royal Women’s Hospital, VIC.
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