The treatment of vaginal cancer depends on the size and stage of tumor. It also depends on the location of the tumor in relation to urethra and anus. Surgery is done in early cases and for advanced stages patient gets radiation therapy.

The following tests and procedures may be used:

• Pap test: A procedure to collect cells from the surface of the cervix and vagina. A piece of cotton, a brush, or a small wooden stick is used to gently scrape cells from the cervix and vagina. The cells are viewed under a microscope to find out if they are abnormal. This procedure is also called a Pap smear.
• Colposcopy: A procedure in which a colposcope (a lighted, magnifying instrument) is used to check the vagina and cervix for abnormal areas. Tissue samples may be taken using a curette (spoon-shaped instrument) or a brush and checked under a microscope for signs of disease.
• Biopsy: If a Pap test shows abnormal cells in the vagina, a biopsy may be done during a colposcopy. When found in early stages, vaginal cancer can often be cured.

• Being aged 60 or older.
• Being exposed to DES while in the mother's womb. In the 1950s, the drug DES was given to some pregnant women to prevent miscarriage (premature birth of a fetus that cannot survive). Women who were exposed to DES before birth have an increased risk of vaginal cancer. Some of these women develop a rare form of vaginal cancer called clear cell adenocarcinoma.
• Having human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
• Having a history of abnormal cells in the cervix or cervical cancer.