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Warning-sign checks

Vaginal cancer: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if bleeding is accompanied by fainting, severe dizziness, confusion, breathing difficulty, or marked weakness.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange a medical appointment promptly if you develop unexplained vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause or after sex.

    Persistent unusual discharge, a vaginal lump, pelvic pain, or new urinary or bowel symptoms also need assessment.

    Seek urgent medical help for heavy or uncontrolled bleeding, severe worsening pain, inability to pass urine, or signs of infection such as fever with feeling very unwell.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has noticed a lump, a mole that has changed, or unexplained weight loss

The article also says

If you have been treated for vaginal cancer, report new bleeding, ongoing pelvic or back pain, leg swelling, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bladder or bowel function.

These symptoms do not necessarily mean the cancer has returned, but they should be checked.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Vaginal cancer. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.