Pelvic Radiation Therapy Induced Vaginal Stenosis: A Review of Current Modalities and Recent Treatment Advances

Abstract

Radiation-induced vaginal stenosis (VS) is a common side effect of pelvic radiotherapy (RT). RT-induced VS may have various negative effects on women’s quality of life, in particular dyspareunia, decreased vaginal lubrication and difficulties in sexual intercourse. This narrative review provides the aspects of RT-induced VS pathogenesis, incidence, evaluation and associated risk factors. Available treatment modalities are discussed in the article, putting the focus on preliminary, although promising, experience in the use of hyaluronic acid and laser therapy in cancer survivors after pelvic RT.

Keywords

• vaginal stenosis
• pelvic radiotherapy
• vaginal dilation therapy
• hyaluronic acid
• laser therapy