For many cancer survivors, healing doesn’t stop when treatment ends. While finishing chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy is a major milestone, the body often continues to adjust—and sometimes struggle—in the months and years after.
Among the lesser-discussed challenges? Vaginal and vulvar symptoms.
Whether due to pelvic radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone suppression (like in breast or gynecologic cancers), many survivors experience changes in vaginal and vulvar health. And while it can feel isolating or even embarrassing, it’s far more common than most people realize—and help is available.
Common Vaginal and Vulvar Symptoms After Cancer
Here are some of the most frequent symptoms survivors report:
Vaginal dryness
Reduced estrogen levels can cause the vaginal tissues to become thin, dry, and less elastic, often resulting in discomfort.
Burning or itching
A dry or inflamed vaginal environment can lead to ongoing irritation.
Pain during sex (dyspareunia)
Loss of natural lubrication and thinning tissues can make intercourse painful or even impossible.
Vaginal tightness or narrowing
Radiation therapy, especially to the pelvic area, can lead to scar tissue and narrowing of the vaginal canal.
Urinary urgency or discomfort
Changes in vaginal tissue can affect the surrounding bladder and urethra, leading to increased urgency or frequency.
Decreased libido
Physical discomfort and emotional stress can both impact sexual desire and satisfaction.
Why These Symptoms Happen
Treatments that affect hormones or target the pelvic region can disrupt the normal balance of the vaginal ecosystem:
Chemotherapy can cause sudden menopause in premenopausal women, reducing estrogen and causing vaginal dryness.
Radiation therapy to the pelvis can damage delicate tissues and nerves.
Hormone therapy (such as tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer) lowers estrogen and testosterone, which are both important for vaginal health.
Even surgical removal of the ovaries or uterus can trigger similar symptoms.
What You Can Do
While these symptoms are difficult, there are effective ways to manage them—and regain a sense of control and comfort in your body.
1. Vaginal Moisturizers & Lubricants
Regular use of non-hormonal vaginal moisturizers (2–3 times per week) can help maintain hydration. Use lubricants during sex to reduce friction and discomfort.
2. Vaginal Estrogen (If Safe)
For some cancer survivors, especially those with hormone-sensitive cancers, local estrogen therapy might not be recommended. But in some cases, low-dose vaginal estrogen (like creams, rings, or tablets) may be considered safe—always discuss this with your oncologist or gynecologist.
3. Vaginal Dilators
Especially after radiation, using dilators can help maintain or restore vaginal flexibility and prevent narrowing.
4. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
A pelvic health specialist can help reduce tension, improve blood flow, and guide you through personalized exercises.
5. Supportive Counseling
Sexual health after cancer is physical, emotional, and relational. Talking to a therapist or joining a survivor support group can help you feel less alone and more empowered.
You're Not Alone
Post-cancer vaginal and vulvar symptoms are under-recognized but deeply impactful. You deserve care that addresses all aspects of your health—not just the parts directly related to cancer treatment.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, bring them up with your care team. They’re important. And there are steps you can take to feel more like yourself again.
